Q&A

1. WHY PANAMA?
Most people who ask this question think of Panama as a third world country a million miles away. Nothing could be further from the truth. Panama is a thriving, well developed area with a modern infrastructure, modern medical facilities and a modern world wide communication system. Panama is a peaceful country with a stable, democratic government. It is only 2 ½ hours from Miami, Florida and 4 hours from Atlanta, Georgia with several non-stop flights daily. It also has a much lower cost of living which insures our residents receive the best of care and living conditions at a fraction of the cost of similar centers located in the U.S. Modern medical facilities, with U.S. trained doctors, include the new Johns Hopkins Hospital located in Panama City, Panama. Moderate climate, clean air, and a slower, more relaxed pace of life in general are attractive bonuses for our residents.

2. WHEN WILL THE CENTER OPEN?
Our planned opening is the Summer of 2008. This date may change slightly depending on the response received in the initial offering and renovation of the center itself.

3. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION TO PALS?
Prospective residents must be at least 18 years of age and have a primary diagnosis of mild to moderate retardation or other developmental disability. Residents must be ambulatory and may not be dependent on illegal drugs or alcohol. PALS welcomes residents of all ethnicities.

4. WHAT IS THE MONTHLY COST?
The research we have done indicates that we will be able to provide quality service and care for approximately $1000.00 per month. This is about one third the cost of similar centers in the US. In most cases, the major part of the fees will be covered by existing funds received from disability benefits our future residents already receive. If the fees create a hardship on families, we will do our utmost to work with you.

5. IS A DEPOSIT REQUIRED?
Yes, a deposit of $1500.00 is required to be maintained in an escrow account for each resident for emergencies such as medical costs not covered by insurance, plane fare home if needed, and other necessities. An accounting of these fees will be provided annually or as needed and requested.

6. IS THE CENTER SECURE?
Yes, 24 hour security will be provided for the entire, enclosed campus.

7. WILL RESIDENTS HAVE TO WORK OUTSIDE THE CENTER?
No. No resident will be outsourced for employment. Our plans include 4 on-sight “stores” for our residents to run with supervision, if they desire. All proceeds from store sales will be used for special events and for individual “pocket money” for those who choose to participate. In no event will anyone be forced to participate.

8. WILL FAMILIES BE ABLE TO FREELY CONTACT RESIDENTS?
Absolutely. Though phone call expenses to Panama can be prohibitive, you are most welcome to call between the hours of 9 am until 6 pm. We also plan to provide internet service with future plans to add web cams. You are also encouraged to visit as often as possible. There are numerous quality hotels and resorts in the area, most providing shuttle service to and from the airport. Our future expansion plans include providing two rooms for visitor accommodations, based on availability. In addition, families will receive periodic newsletters updating them on recent activities and status.

9. WHAT KIND OF RECREATIONAL FACILITIES WILL BE AVAILABLE?
The center includes a pool, a wading pool, a supervised exercise room and a community recreation center with television, games, books and arts and crafts classes. A miniature golf course or putting green is also planned for the future. Field trips to parks, beaches, the zoo and other local points of interest will be conducted several times a year.

10. ARE MEALS AND MAID SERVICES INCLUDED?
Yes. Residents will be provided breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks prepared with fresh, healthy ingredients by staff employed by the center. The climate of the area assures fresh produce year round. The area in which the center is located is referred to as the bread basket of the country and fresh food is plentiful. Although residents will be encouraged to keep their individual living quarters clean and orderly, maid service will be provided to ensure a clean and healthy environment. Also, laundry facilities are provided with assistance for those who require help.

11. WILL YOU PROVIDE ON SITE NURSING STAFF?
Yes, a qualified nurse will be on site 24 hours a day, seven days a week to handle minor medical issues, dispense prescription medications and serve as a liaison with local physicians. In the event of a major medical emergency, local hospitals will provide emergency care and if necessary, ground or air transportation to Panama City’s major hospitals, including Johns Hopkins.

12. I AM VERY INTERESTED IN YOUR PROGRAM. HOW DO I GET MORE INFORMATION OR APPLY?
Simply fill out the request form. We will send you a short questionnaire to complete and return. Each application will be reviewed by staff to determine if our center is right for you. Completing the initial form is for informational purposes only and will obligate neither the client nor the center. Necessary medical request forms, contact information and signed contracts for service will be needed prior to final acceptance of all residents. All questionnaires and applications are strictly confidential.