The existing literature on Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 eligibility for complementary paratransit identifies several common models in practice and briefly discusses which transit providers are using which methods. However, few sources describe implementation strategies.  Moreover, there are no examples that follow the process of creating a paratransit eligibility model for a particular system from inception to full implementation.  Unfortunately, the literature focuses on technical details that do not necessarily connect to the bigger picture of ADA requirements.  Instead, the trend seems to be towards creating increasingly complex, multi-step, and costly determination processes without addressing two crucial questions:  (1) Are these new models truly carrying out the intent of the ADA; and, (2) Are the models as effective in practice as they appear on paper?  This study should provides answers to these important questions about a model for Delaware.

       Although the ADA and related literature are clear about eligibility being a functional determination, determining "function" is difficult because "functional" processes lack a common definition or agreement and vary widely—from paper processes to complete field and laboratory testing of applicants.  Approximately 10 percent of current applicants fall into a category that is difficult to determine and might, therefore, require more involved determination procedures.  In other words, these applicants need actual testing to evaluate and observe the individual's ability to use fixed route bus services, leaving 90 percent of the applications to be processed without extensive functional testing.  This area should be explored because of its cost-effectiveness.

       In Delaware, the Delaware Transit Corporation (DTC) is the public sector provider of paratransit services and is responsible for determining who, according to ADA eligibility standards, has access to this public service.  DTC operates its paratransit under DART First State Paratransit.  Current eligibility determination practice in Delaware is a paper process requiring two levels of certification.  The first is a "request for certification of ADA paratransit eligibility"—a form completed by a health care professional who certifies that a disability prevents the applicant's use of the fixed route service—that must be included with the application.  The second level is completed by a Medical Review Officer (MRO) who makes the determination decision.  The MRO is a physician who contracts with DTC to provide this service.

       This report describes Delaware's processes regarding paratransit eligibility.  It provides summary information about experiences with the processes.  Finally, it provides recommendations for improving the processes for the future.