Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #105750

Ruth M. Lefton¹, Julie Hensler-Cullen, RN, MSN¹, and Bala Palecanda, MA, MUP². (1) Moss Rehab, Albert Einstein Helathcare Network and Jefferson Health System, 1200 West Tabor Road, philadelphia, PA 19141, 215-456-9622, leftonr@einstein.edu, (2) Einstein Center for Urban Health Policy and Research, Albert Einstein Helathcare Network and Jefferson Health System, Wister Tower Building, One Penn Boulevard, Suite 4439, Philadelphia, PA 19144

In this presentation we will outline a unique comprehensive model for delivery of primary and specialty services for individuals with physical disabilities. According to U.S. Census of 2000, an estimated 49.7 million persons (19.3 percent of the population) report disability. If the age-specific prevalence of major chronic conditions remain unchanged, the absolute number of Americans with functional limitations will rise by more than 300 per cent by 2049.

Recent studies and reports indicate that people with disabilities face unique challenges in accessing medical care. 1) Lack of physical access to medical facilities and office spaces and/or people trained to transfer them easily from wheel chair. 2) Difficulties in identifying ancillary services or diagnostic sites where health professionals who can run diagnostic tests. 3) Lack of support to undress or accommodate as needed in a hospital setting 4) Staff not competent to care for persons with range of disabilities. 5) Lack of accessibility to public transportation and/or limitations of public transportation itself in accommodating individuals with disability.

In order to meet the needs of persons with disabilities, we will involve disabled populations in the design and delivery of services. We will use an evidence-based approach to build our recommendations based on reported health care needs and experiences. Data obtained from persons with disabilities will mold rehabilitation planning efforts that we will describe. Such information will help to design model systems to deliver primary and secondary services and help to drive future advocacy efforts on behalf of individuals with disabilities.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify barriers of access to primary care facilities experienced by persons with disabilities.
• Articulate evidence provided to educate healthcare professionals about common health care utilization issues for persons with disabilities.
• Develop strategies for healthcare managers and designers can implement that ensure perspectives of persons served are included in hospital design process for space, programs and services.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.