Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1541294
Cultural Competency Definitions: Impairment vs Disability Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) The ADA requires: • Medical care providers make their services available in an accessible manner. • Policies, procedures and guidelines be in place regarding non-discrimination based on disability. • Providence is committed to providing equal access for members and their companions with disabilities. Reasons for Accommodations Functional limitations may create a need for accommodations such as: • Physical accessibility. • Changes to provider office policies. • Accessible exam or medical equipment. • Effective communication. • Member and health education materials in alternate formats. • Physical disabilities may be more obvious, but unseen mobility issues are more common. For example: A member may experience an issue with physical ability to move around or walk a distance due to hip or knee problems, breathing issues, weakness, etc. Never assume to know the person's disability. "No individual shall be discriminated against on the basis of disability …" Most important legislation for disability rights Prohibits discrimination Fundamental values Equal opportunity Integration Full participation Functional Limitations • Difficulty completing basic or complex activities because of a physical, mental or emotional restriction. • May be due to behavioral and/or chronic health conditions. Functional Capabilities • Strength of a person with a disability to perform certain activities, with or without accommodations. Impairment • Alteration of a person's health status as assessed by medical means. • Typically identified with an organ or body part. • Ranges from mild (e.g. pinky amputation) to severe (e.g. tertraplegia). • Does not include impact on person's ability to function in society Disability • A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities (mobility, cognitive, vision or hearing). • Birth (congenital) to acquired over lifetime. • Visible or hidden. Provider Education Training Manual 34 |