REHABILITATION SERVICES

Hi everyone, my name is Katrina, and I’m the Coordinator for Rehabilitation Services.
Our department oversees programs that ensure families and children receive the rehabilitation support they need. We manage a wide range of services, including housing accessibility, therapy coordination, assistive technology, and transition planning for youth.

We also handle referrals, assessments, and documentation to ensure every case follows proper procedures and funding guidelines.

Our work includes:

• housing modifications and accessibility improvements
• one-on-one child support
• medical and therapy coordination
• dental assistance and travel
• assistive technology
• workshops for independent living
• and transition planning for youth approaching adulthood.

Our department works closely with Case Managers, so whenever a family requires rehabilitation services, the Case Manager contacts our department to arrange a meeting. Together we review the family’s needs and help develop a case plan to ensure proper service delivery. We also prepare monthly reports and schedules, and ensure all documentation follows official procedures.  

Housing Modifications

One of our department’s major responsibilities is home accessibility and safety improvements for children with mobility challenges.

Examples of Modifications

• Wheelchair ramps and decks
• Accessible bathtubs and higher toilet seats
• Autism-friendly fences with safe designs
• Door charms for children at risk of wandering

Required Documentation

Each modification must meet strict approval criteria, including:

• Occupational Therapist (OT) documentation
• Individual request form
• Physiotherapist recommendations
• Measurements or designs if needed

Before any work begins, a written approval must be obtained from the homeowner 

or Band Housing representative. All modifications follow proper steps and safety 

procedures to ensure suitability for the child.

Medical and Therapy Coordination

We work closely with physicians, therapists and specialists to ensure children receive the care they need. This includes:

• Coordination of Occupational Therapy (OT), Physiotherapy and Speech therapy
• Home visit scheduling and Cree translation as needed.
• Collaboration with the Nurse Practitioner and Pediatricians to coordinate referrals

Referral Examples

• OT: if the child is not potty trained, or unable to hold a pencil.
• Physio: if the child is clumsy, trouble with balance or coordination
• Speech Therapy: if child has speech delay or has unclear pronunciation
• Hearing Checks: for attention or listening difficulties

We refer children to specialists such as nurses, social workers, dieticians, and psychologists, who visit every few months depending on need.

Dental Assistance and Travel

We coordinate dental travel funding for children and families. Coverage includes mileage, accommodations and meals, and all travel must be approved through Medical Services before appointments. 

If a request is denied, the family must obtain a denial letter, which is used to submit an individual request through Jordan’s Principle (JP).

Documentation Required for Braces or Major Dental Work

• official quote and treatment plan
• support letters (teachers/principals)
• hygienist’s letter
• denial letter from medical services
• proof of insurance (if parents are employed)

A second escort may be approved for children with mobility or behavioral challenges, based on medical recommendation.

Assistive Technology

We help provide iPads or laptops for non-verbal children, but only with a recommendation letter from a qualified professional. These devices are strictly for educational and communication purposes, not entertainment.

Workshops and Independent Living Programs

Our department offers workshops and educational programs designed for children with various diagnoses.

These programs aim to build:

• Life skills
• Independence
• Confidence
• They support children in developing key abilities for everyday life and long-term growth.

Transition Planning for Youth

When youth approach adulthood (age 18), we assist with transition planning to ensure continued support. This includes connecting them with adult service providers, helping with documentation, and ensuring they have a clear path forward into independent living.

Home Health Aides 

We provide Home Health Aides (HHAs) for children who need daily assistance.

• Typically 4 hours per day, several times a week
• Support includes lifting, mobility, and daily routines
• Ensures safety and comfort for the child

Child Care Relief Services (Respite)

These services give parents a break with the daily tasks associated with their child’s needs.

• Assessments need to be done by a nurse or a doctor.
• A recommendation letter must be provided by the nurses and doctors.
• The letter must state the child’s diagnosis.

Referral and Assessment Process

Referrals are typically initiated by parents or rehabilitation assistants.

The process includes:

• Referral received and case file created
• Initial meeting with family to review requirements using a checklist
• Assessments begin once referrals are processed
• Specialists provide diagnoses and treatment plans
• Due to high demand, some services may have waitlists, but our team continues to support families throughout the process.

Partnerships and Funding

We partner with organizations such as:

• Special Services for Children and Youth (SSCY)
• St. Amant
• KIM Inc. (Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin)

These partnerships help us deliver specialized services and consistent care.

Funding Updates

Previously, partners applied for funding through Jordan’s Principle (JP) with Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). Now, each community or reserve manages funding directly for their band members. Organizations now bill Maskosis directly each month for services. Receipts and invoices are required for all transactions to ensure accountability.

Inactive Case Procedure

If a case shows no activity for three months or appointments are missed:

• The family is contacted.
• A formal letter is sent.
• If there’s still no response, the case is paused until contact is re-established.

Our Commitment

The Rehabilitation Services Department is dedicated to supporting families and children through:

• Specialized care and accessibility improvements
• Long-term planning and coordination
• Clear documentation and funding compliance

Our goal is to build a coordinated, compassionate system that helps children live comfortably, safely, and independently — while empowering families every step of the way. Thank you.