Back to Annual Meeting

Back to Annual Meeting

APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Margaret Giannini, MD, FAAP, Director, Office on Disability, Department of Health and Human Resources, 200 Independence Avenue, S.W., Room 637 D, Washington, DC 20201, 202-401-5844, margaret.giannini@hhs.gov

The Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) created the Office of Disability in October 2002. It oversees the implementation and coordination of disability programs, policies and special initiatives for 54 million persons with disabilities. By providing a voice for persons with disabilities within HHS; coordinating programs and initiatives related to disability issues within HHS; and reaching out to federal, state and tribal, community and private sector partners, the Office of Disability has helped America realize the promise of the President's New Freedom Initiative for individuals of all ages with disabilities, to make choices about their daily lives and participate in community living. This session will examine the role of the Office of Disability in bringing about these changes and examine trends and predictions of how to assure future generations of individuals with disabilities the opportunity of full inclusion in society.

Learning Objectives:

• 1) Attendees will be able to state the role and responsibilities of the Office of Disabilities as it relates to individuals with disabilities living in America.
• 2) Attendees will be able to list four major strategies and initiatives designed to tear down barriers facing people with disabilities which prevent them from fully contributing and participating in community living.
• 3) Attendees will be able to explain the impact of the New Freedom Initiative and the Recommendations of the 2005 White House Conference on Aging on policies related to the health, well being, employment, housing and support service needs of aging individuals with disabilities.

Keywords: Aging, Disability

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No