DAS changes coming WDW May 20/ DL June 18, 2024

[lanejudy]

The parents education implies superior knowledge NOT income.

You keep throwing the parent's education/profession in your posts about this family -- but in all honestly that doesn't really have bearing on the situation within a WDW park. The parent may better understand the child's diagnosis and medical needs, but diagnosis and medical needs are not the same as theme park queue-related needs. A medical professional has superior knowledge about health and medicine, but a CM has superior knowledge about the operations of their attraction. So many doctors would write notes because they feel their patient "deserves" special treatment at the parks but that doesn't necessarily translate into "cannot wait in a queue." Yes, medical needs may have to be attended to while in the park, but again that doesn't necessarily mean unable to be in the queue.

People have to be prepared to explain how/why being in the queue directly impacts their disability. Not that XYZ factors are complicating, or it's easier to manage X outside the queue when it occurs, or Y might happen.

Reports of video chat CMs stating something along the lines of "DAS is only for autism (or cognitive or developmental, etc.)" seem to be from individuals who have been denied and pushing for what is approved. Sort of shopping for the right answer, even though I'm not sure that's necessarily the intent -- it very well could be out of frustration and disappointment. I understand it's hard to share your disability and then be told "no" but the response about "DAS is only for --" seems to be a way CMs are ending a conversation that's going nowhere. Other accommodations are available within the parks and the best answer as to how those work is to ask a CM at the attraction. Expecting a return-to-queue time is not a guarantee; there are other accommodations.

 

[TLSnell1981]

You keep throwing the parent's education/profession in your posts about this family -- but in all honestly that doesn't really have bearing on the situation within a WDW park. The parent may better understand the child's diagnosis and medical needs, but diagnosis and medical needs are not the same as theme park queue-related needs. So many doctors would write notes because they feel their patient "deserves" special treatment at the parks but that doesn't necessarily translate into "cannot wait in a queue." Yes, medical needs may have to be attended to while in the park, but again that doesn't necessarily mean unable to be in the queue.

People have to be prepared to explain how/why being in the queue directly impacts their disability. Not that XYZ factors are complicating, or it's easier to manage X outside the queue when it occurs, or Y might happen.

Reports of video chat CMs stating something along the lines of "DAS is only for autism (or cognitive or developmental, etc.)" seem to be from individuals who have been denied and pushing for what is approved. Sort of shopping for the right answer, even though I'm not sure that's necessarily the intent -- it very well could be out of frustration and disappointment. I understand it's hard to share your disability and then be told "no" but the response about "DAS is only for --" seems to be a way CMs are ending a conversation that's going nowhere. Other accommodations are available within the parks and the best answer as to how those work is to ask a CM at the attraction. Expecting a return-to-queue time is not a guarantee; there are other accommodations.

I'm surprised by your statement that ''many'' physicians would misrepresent their patients needs. A Disney CM is better equipped to determine these? I'm sure they do their best but this only extends to the training provided which is the point. I am not disrespecting or blaming the CM. Yes when denied the response is I'm sorry. I sympathize but DAS is for cognitive or developmental issues. I'm also taken aback by the ''shopping'' comment. It is a challenge to describe needs instead of simply providing diagnoses. It is similar to appealing a decision to someone paid to deny services i.e. insurance approval for procedures. Perhaps something is lost in translation and comes across as "shopping''. They are speaking ''different languages'' and not communicating effectively?

I visited Disneyland Paris last year and they require a letter of medical necessity....opposite of the U.S. parks. It was easier for me. Respect is given to provider ...they accept or deny. It's difficult for some of us to ask (or beg) for the assistance we need. It can be a humiliating experience. DAS states online it is now for cognitive or developmental conditions. I don't disagree that these needs should be met. If one's needs don't fall into that category the conversation is over....going nowhere. Although one can be psychically diminished they can still keep their dignity intact.

 

[DiznyDiva]

It seems these days that the most incredulous stories are always I heard from a friend, I read somewhere or a friend of friend told me.... All getting worse and worse so they can be retold like a bad game of telephone. All saying things that are near impossible but are eagerly accepted by people for whatever reasons needs to believe and put their normal doubts aside.

IF this had really happen exactly as told, there is no way the parents would not reported this and even got security involved.... Did that happen?

To many parents think throwing their weight around, their education, their child diagnoses, that they are key holders... will get them what they want. They go on and on about how the poor CMs are mistreated by big bad Disney and then turn around and are the worst offenders. And then suddenly the CM are maniacal stalkers who are running them down, looking them up on the internet, laughing in their face and hanging up on them for no reason. None of theses stories have a part where the park goer has been rude, or admitted to otherwise appropriate behaviors. Funny...huh.

Accommodations at the park might not be to people's liking but they are accommodations. RT are supposed to be far and in between and not a common everyday, every time occurrence.

Comes down to planing. Go tho park and plan not have it and make the best if offered. If you don't like what's offered move on..

 

[lanejudy]

I'm surprised by your statement that ''many'' physicians would misrepresent their patients needs. A Disney CM is better equipped to determine these?

There are plenty of reports of doctors who write notes "my patient has MS and needs accommodations." Or even "my patient is pregnant with 4 children under age 6 and thus deserves to skip the lines." Take a look at some of the reported "documentation" provided to Universal. It's not a misrepresentation of the patient's needs as much as it doesn't address the patient's needs specifically related to a standard queue environment.

Medical knowledge (or terminology) is not needed to explain why someone cannot wait in a standard queue environment. The individual should be able to explain their NEEDS. This is not diagnosis-based, it is need-based and needs will vary from individual to individual with the same diagnosis.

The CM is NOT determining needs. The CM is determining accommodations that fit within the current operational environment. Again, detailed descriptions of diagnosis is not necessary. A simple "I may need to leave the queue to attend to a medical need. How do I rejoin my party?" should suffice. Expectation of a return time seems to be the hang-up that is catching a lot of guests who want that and nothing else.

 

[gottalovepluto]

Well, there were 3 of them, including a 6 year old. It was a young 20ish cast member and my daughter and granddaughter waited by the entrance. There are clocks by the entrance for lightning lane purposes.

Your fam were probably too distraught at the time for any of this but if anyone else here experiences that I would
1. Note the name of the CM and ask to talk to a supervisor at the attraction
2. if the supervisor won’t fix it immediately file a complaint to guest relations by sending an email with both CM names, date, attraction and time of incident.

 

[nalababybear]

Does anybody know what this refers to? We are arriving next week and our A plan for coping with being kicked out of the DAS system has blown up a bit now that I know we have to actually make it to a park and use a LL before we can get more than one headline attraction— I don’t mind paying for LL access but I can only last a few hours a day in the park and want to try to ensure my kids can do their top 3 rides (though I have prepared them that we’ll be doing a lot less than we used to).

Haven't ben following the new MPLL rules since we are disneyland anaheim folk. Is it like the old FP+ system of needing to tap into the two FP preselects in order to start the scheduling future ones? Have to dig up old touring plans if so.

I wish you cool temperatures and good queues in the AM and hopefully split hours will work out. Are you staying on site deluxe for extended hours opportunity?

 

[nalababybear]

There are plenty of reports of doctors who write notes "my patient has MS and needs accommodations." Or even "my patient is pregnant with 4 children under age 6 and thus deserves to skip the lines." Take a look at some of the reported "documentation" provided to Universal. It's not a misrepresentation of the patient's needs as much as it doesn't address the patient's needs specifically related to a standard queue environment.

Medical knowledge (or terminology) is not needed to explain why someone cannot wait in a standard queue environment. The individual should be able to explain their NEEDS. This is not diagnosis-based, it is need-based and needs will vary from individual to individual with the same diagnosis.

The CM is NOT determining needs. The CM is determining accommodations that fit within the current operational environment. Again, detailed descriptions of diagnosis is not necessary. A simple "I may need to leave the queue to attend to a medical need. How do I rejoin my party?" should suffice. Expectation of a return time seems to be the hang-up that is catching a lot of guests who want that and nothing else.

When we write letters for accommodation, it usually is a general acknowledgment of a medical issue and request for appropriate accommodations and can give an example of such.

It's up to the employer or company to determine that final accommodation.

If a physician is writing specifics like needs DAS, that really won't fly and surprised if they are doing that specific call out, even if very familiar with Disney operations.

 

[TLSnell1981]

There are plenty of reports of doctors who write notes "my patient has MS and needs accommodations." Or even "my patient is pregnant with 4 children under age 6 and thus deserves to skip the lines." Take a look at some of the reported "documentation" provided to Universal. It's not a misrepresentation of the patient's needs as much as it doesn't address the patient's needs specifically related to a standard queue environment.

Medical knowledge (or terminology) is not needed to explain why someone cannot wait in a standard queue environment. The individual should be able to explain their NEEDS. This is not diagnosis-based, it is need-based and needs will vary from individual to individual with the same diagnosis.

The CM is NOT determining needs. The CM is determining accommodations that fit within the current operational environment. Again, detailed descriptions of diagnosis is not necessary. A simple "I may need to leave the queue to attend to a medical need. How do I rejoin my party?" should suffice. Expectation of a return time seems to be the hang-up that is catching a lot of guests who want that and nothing else.

Now I understand Disney's approach in refusing to accommodate some needs/disabilities. Thank you for simplifying their position.

I was healthy when we purchased DVC, Disney provided accommodations years later when I needed assistance. It's sad but I can no longer participate under the new criteria. I am not able. My park reservations are now available for more desirable guests. We have many happy memories with the Mouse so this is a difficult pill to swallow. Although the discussion has made the divorce much easier.

 

[gottalovepluto]

Haven't ben following the new MPLL rules since we are disneyland anaheim folk. Is it like the old FP+ system of needing to tap into the two FP preselects in order to start the scheduling future ones? Have to dig up old touring plans if so.

I wish you cool temperatures and good queues in the AM and hopefully split hours will work out. Are you staying on site deluxe for extended hours opportunity?

You need to enter the park and tap into your first ride/have it expire, then you can make changes to your passes.

 

[PrincessV]

Frontline CM’s are not supposed to be asking diagnoses per what DAS tm told me and others reported the same. All you are supposed to need to do is say I have a disability that prevents me from waiting in this queue because ___ or I may need to exit the line because of a disability that causes ____.

I’ve mostly been ignoring the thread because, well… it’s lot lately.

But I wanted to mention in regard to the above that when I requested AQR/RTQ/whatever they wanted to provide accommodation at a ride a month or so ago, I was NOT asked for my diagnosis, but I was asked, “Is it that you’re not able to wait in the line at all?” I can see how some might take that as a request for diagnosis. I took it as needing to know a little more about my situation so as to provide th most appropriate accommodation. I did not disclose my diagnosis or any details of my condition, only answered the question with “Kind of - I can make it about 10-15 minutes, tops” and was accommodated.

ETA: Without being there, we can’t know fo sure what CMs are asking, but based on my own experience I can see where a CM asks for a little more information to make an assessment and the Guest *feels* like they’re being asked for a diagnosis. Remember that you are never required to provide that if you don’t want to and can choose not to answer any questions with which you’re not comfortable - and if pressured by a CM, politely request a supervisor to intervene.

 

[TLSnell1981]

I’ve mostly been ignoring the thread because, well… it’s lot lately.

But I wanted to mention in regard to the above that when I requested AQR/RTQ/whatever they wanted to provide accommodation at a ride a month or so ago, I was NOT asked for my diagnosis, but I was asked, “Is it that you’re not able to wait in the line at all?” I can see how some might take that as a request for diagnosis. I took it as needing to know a little more about my situation so as to provide th most appropriate accommodation. I did not disclose my diagnosis or any details of my condition, only answered the question with “Kind of - I can make it about 10-15 minutes, tops” and was accommodated.

ETA: Without being there, we can’t know fo sure what CMs are asking, but based on my own experience I can see where a CM asks for a little more information to make an assessment and the Guest *feels* like they’re being asked for a diagnosis. Remember that you are never required to provide that if you don’t want to and can choose not to answer any questions with which you’re not comfortable - and if pressured by a CM, politely request a supervisor to intervene.

I'm happy your needs were met. It is a crap shoot at best. Not an ideal situation for many.

 

[DiznyDiva]

But I wanted to mention in regard to the above that when I requested AQR/RTQ/whatever they wanted to provide accommodation at a ride a month or so ago, I was NOT asked for my diagnosis, but I was asked, “Is it that you’re not able to wait in the line at all?” I can see how some might take that as a request for diagnosis. I took it as needing to know a little more about my situation so as to provide th most appropriate accommodation. I did not disclose my diagnosis or any details of my condition, only answered the question with “Kind of - I can make it about 10-15 minutes, tops” and was accommodated

Asking what is it about waiting in lines that cause you issues is not asking for in depth diagnosis. It's asking you to explain what you actually need, not just a general I can't stand in a line.

Most of the CM's have way too much to do and too many guests to help to want to listen to a long story. Keep it sweet and simple and be polite. They are not the enemy and if guests keep going at them like they are...it's no wonder they distant.. even bordering on cold. The internet is turning this situation into an us vs them fight with the Cm's being the bad guy they can attack since they are not getting anything from Disney.

I would say when hoping for a ride accommodation either RT or RTQ, you should be prepared to explain what is it about the line you can't do so they can honestly help you with the accommodation that is available at that particular ride.

I think Lumiere and Mrs. Potts say it best :
Mrs. Potts : But be sincere.
Lumiere : And above all.
Lumiere , Mrs. Potts : You must control your temper!

 

[CO2CA]

We were just denied. We have received DAS in the past after attempting to make other accommodations work. The CM stated only developmental disabilities would be accepted for the DAS and gave a few examples, but I'm not going to list here just so it doesn't make it easier for scammers.

One member of our group has severe anxiety and PTSD. We stated we had used the trick in previous trips of having them wait outside of the queue and then attempting to rejoin us when we got towards the front but it caused more stress than necessary. They said we needed to try that again and see if it has changed. One of us will need to wait in the queue while the other waits outside with them and get periodic updates.

Kind of an overall bummer, but what are you going to do? We didn't get upset with the CM, it isn't their fault but just frustrating that those who were scamming the system made it more difficult for those who actually do need it to have an enjoyable trip to Disneyland.

 

[mistysue]

I'm happy your needs were met. It is a crap shoot at best. Not an ideal situation for many.

I do really sympathize with you. I've actually been on the receiving end of over the top bad CM behavior (and it involved some sort of note on my account that took multiple locations and calls to corporate to override to be treated like a normal person for what was a complete misunderstanding)

I can also tell this whole discussion is very upsetting to you. I'm wondering if it would help if you stopped making negative remarks after everything someone else says that is positive? She had a good experience, belittling it because you heard about a friend having a bad experience is no better than the people being skeptical of the story you are telling.

With that said, is there some need you have that maybe someone can help you brainstorm without the answer being "I will only accept DAS no matter what can actually be done" ? If the answer is that you will only accept the accommodation known as DAS, than as you keep saying maybe it is time for you to move on. I in no way intend that to be cruel, sometimes we need a nudge to remember to do the things that are the best for ourselves.

 

[mistysue]

We were just denied. We have received DAS in the past after attempting to make other accommodations work. The CM stated only developmental disabilities would be accepted for the DAS and gave a few examples, but I'm not going to list here just so it doesn't make it easier for scammers.

One member of our group has severe anxiety and PTSD. We stated we had used the trick in previous trips of having them wait outside of the queue and then attempting to rejoin us when we got towards the front but it caused more stress than necessary. They said we needed to try that again and see if it has changed. One of us will need to wait in the queue while the other waits outside with them and get periodic updates.

Kind of an overall bummer, but what are you going to do? We didn't get upset with the CM, it isn't their fault but just frustrating that those who were scamming the system made it more difficult for those who actually do need it to have an enjoyable trip to Disneyland.

Are you able to swap which person waits in the line while other are out? If so, sometimes this actually creates golden opportunities for 1:1 time, and also for "stare into my phone or read a book" decompression time for the person waiting alone.

 

[CAPSLOCK]

We stated we had used the trick in previous trips of having them wait outside of the queue and then attempting to rejoin us when we got towards the front but it caused more stress than necessary.

Was this using the LL to meet up with the group, or another method to try to rejoin? I hope you have an easier time now that they're formally using the LL for this purpose.

 

[TLSnell1981]

I do really sympathize with you. I've actually been on the receiving end of over the top bad CM behavior (and it involved some sort of note on my account that took multiple locations and calls to corporate to override to be treated like a normal person for what was a complete misunderstanding)

I can also tell this whole discussion is very upsetting to you. I'm wondering if it would help if you stopped making negative remarks after everything someone else says that is positive? She had a good experience, belittling it because you heard about a friend having a bad experience is no better than the people being skeptical of the story you are telling.

With that said, is there some need you have that maybe someone can help you brainstorm without the answer being "I will only accept DAS no matter what can actually be done" ? If the answer is that you will only accept the accommodation known as DAS, than as you keep saying maybe it is time for you to move on. I in no way intend that to be cruel, sometimes we need a nudge to remember to do the things that are the best for ourselves.

There is no Pollyanna approach or remedy. Two weeks ago we were planning a fall break at Disney. It's all come to an abrupt end. I'm sad and my family is disappointed. I am very aware of my limitations and capabilities. It's no longer doable or a vacation much less a ''magical experience''. So as you stated...moving on, dumping my DVC and eating the eight grand I spent two months ago on annual passes is my only option at this point. No nudge but a swift kick in the gut to do what's ''best''.

 

[Disneylover99]

There is no Pollyanna approach or remedy. Two weeks ago we were planning a fall break at Disney. It's all come to an abrupt end. I'm sad and my family is disappointed. I am very aware of my limitations and capabilities. It's no longer doable or a vacation much less a ''magical experience''. So as you stated...moving on, dumping my DVC and eating the eight grand I spent two months ago on annual passes is my only option at this point. No nudge but a swift kick in the gut to do what's ''best''.

I understand not renewing, but why not just go and enjoy other aspects of the parks if you have new annual passes? Maybe dining, shopping, shows? Etc…

 

[2tinkerbell]

I'm happy your needs were met. It is a crap shoot at best. Not an ideal situation for many.

I realize that you are disappointed that your needs are not being accommodated in the way you want them to be or have had in the past. It is frustrating indeed. However there comes a time when you need to make the decision that is best for you and your family and move on. By move on I mean finding differently ways to accommodate your disability or have a successful trip. Take a deep breath. Being angry about something for days on end that you have no control over isn’t good for you or your family. I know that recounting horror stories that you have heard or read about isn’t good for a lot of people here due to their anxiety or PTSD. A lot of us are worried and trying our best to get information on how we can utilize alternative solutions/accommodations to the DAS.

Needs are being accommodated. Disney is offering solutions/accommodations to those that need them.

We can all read horror stories and can add our own interpretation to them. I read your story as someone was denied a DAS. As an aside, I didn’t understand why being on oxygen automatically meant you couldn’t stand in a traditional queue. The group approached the CM demanding a RTQ time. The CM at Pooh most likely denied this as he didn’t see the need or wanted them to at least try the queue. If they were asking what to do if they needed to leave the queue, then they would have a different answer. I can see the group getting really frustrated and angry because the basically didn’t get DAS and now are being denied DAS again (which RTQ is). They go over to the tea cups to try the same thing. I can see how a CM, especially if I had been subjected to dealing with someone’s anger, and watching them try to get a RTQ at another ride, would “chase them down” to make sure they weren’t successful at another attraction. Perhaps this CM was a lead/supervisor, that is my thought because of the encounter at Pooh. That is how I, personally, interpreted the story.

Now, I am going to be judgmental here. Just because one has an education or medical expertise; just because one is taking a “therapeutic” trip; just because one is DVC or have spent thousands of dollars on their trip; just because one is traveling xxx miles, all this doesn’t equate to, what I personally take, one being more “deserving” of the specific accommodation they want. To me, it feels like an entitlement issue.

I can have empathy, and I believe I do. I feel sorry that this family had a horrible trip and spent time in their hotel and not enjoying their trip. However, I have found when I am feeling embarrassed or think that I am being embarrassed, it is usually because of my own actions and not someone else’s.

I am going back under my rock.

 

[GoingSince1990]

I understand not renewing, but why not just go and enjoy other aspects of the parks if you have new annual passes? Maybe dining, shopping, shows? Etc…

Focus on rides with short standby lines? Occasionally buy LLMP or ILL? The cost of doing that seems relatively small in comparison to the $8k that might otherwise be wasted.