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Abstract
Purpose: To compare a consumer-directed personal assistance services (PAS) programme with an agency-directed PAS programme.
Method: A convenience sample was used for this cross-sectional study with one data collection point. Outcomes were compared for consumer-directed and agency-directed PAS. Hierarchical regressions were also used to determine the predictors of outcomes across PAS programmes. In-home interviews were conducted by a trained data collector from April 2000 to December 2001.
Results: Participants in the consumer-directed programme reported more choices over PAS and satisfaction with PAS. Self-reported outcomes were primarily predicted by the following variables: service arrangement, type of provider, importance of directing PAS, health status, number of personal assistants used in past 12 months, sufficient PAS hours received, and social support.
Conclusions: Consumer-directed PAS enhances outcomes for many persons with disabilities. Self-reported outcomes are affected by many factors that could be addressed in PAS programme development.