Health Access
United Spinal is on the frontlines of ensuring wheelchair users have equal access to healthcare. Take a look at our comprehensive collection of resources for people with disabilities and health providers.
For Healthcare Providers
In the realm of healthcare, ensuring accessibility is a crucial aspect of providing quality care to all patients. We encourage healthcare providers to consider the following:
- Start by asking patients if they require any accommodations before or during their visit. Some common needs are lowered reception counters, height adjustable exam tables, wheelchair accessible restrooms, patient lifts or assistance with transfers, elevators, and automatic or push-button doors.
- Inform patients who use wheelchairs or mobility devices about accessible parking and entrances.
- Ensure that your medical equipment, exam rooms, and other patient areas are accessible. Leave enough space for someone to maneuver a wheelchair and remove any unnecessary furniture or clutter.
- Train your staff on how to respectfully care for patients with mobility disabilities. This includes regular training on disability etiquette and safe transfer techniques.
By taking these steps, you can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all patients.
We’ve developed this checklist, to help medical providers assess the physical accessibility of waiting rooms and exam rooms in hospitals or clinics. Or, complete the Medical Office & Equipment Accessibility Audit online and receive an email with your responses.
For People with Disabilities
When advocating for your health needs as a wheelchair user, the main strategies include effective communication, involving a support person, and seeking specialized care.
- Start your search for a new primary care provider (PCP) with a list of providers who accept your insurance or are associated with your hospitals of choice.
- Consider interviewing the physicians or clinic staff to ask if they have ever cared for patients with mobility disabilities. Ask about clinic accessibility and whether they will provide necessary accommodations.
- You may want to regularly see a provider who is an expert in treating patients with your specific diagnosis, such as a physiatrist.
- Communication is the most important aspect of healthcare. Make sure to clearly tell your healthcare providers about any accommodations you need and don’t be shy about asking questions or expressing your worries.
- Taking a loved one or a friend to your healthcare appointments can be helpful.
- Take a list of your current medications with you to your first appointment, including vitamins, supplements, and dosages.
- Keeping a notebook or jotting down notes on your phone about your health concerns and questions may be helpful.
- Remember that you are the best person to advocate for your health and well-being – no one knows your body better than you do.
Download the full checklist.
Access to Equitable Health Toolkit
Download helpful tips and checklists, including guidance for medical care providers on the requirements of the ADA in medical settings with respect to people with mobility disabilities.
Video: Healthcare Access
In this short video, United Spinal members discuss barriers they encountered accessing healthcare.
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 All components of the “Access to Equitable Healthcare” toolkit are part of a health equity project developed with a sponsorship from Genentech, A Member of the Roche Group. |
