Accessibility of health information technology

People with disabilities sometimes encounter obstacles when using health information technology (e.g., PHR software that must be operated with a mouse). These information technology barriers may result in health disparities and may not be readily apparent to individuals who are unfamiliar with assistive technologies used by people with disabilities. The presenter will discuss accessibility issues such as: types of disabilities and information technologies; stakeholder populations; relevant public policies and standards/guidelines.

The disability community is very interested in health information technology because it sees an opportunity to positively impact the development of a new infrastructure to ensure equal access to health information by all Americans.

However, people with disabilities are worried that they are going to be left behind as we proceed forward in the health information age, which is ironic since they are the largest minority group in the U.S., accounting for 1 in 5 people. This is an appropriate time to address the issue, considering the White House Executive Order 13335 driving a vision to promote available electronic health information by the year 2014.

The presentation will emphasize the weight of one's point of view in the development of accessible solutions. Pushback often results from a misconception that solutions will be difficult or expensive, before an effort is made to gather facts. The presenter will encourage enforcement of non-discrimination policies through a commitment to work-through problems. This begins with applauding APHA for putting this issue on the agenda.