Article

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires full and equal access to
healthcare services and facilities, yet studies indicate individuals with
mobility disabilities receive less than thorough care as a result of ADA
noncompliance. The objective of our pilot study was to assess ADA compliance
within a convenience sample of healthcare clinics affiliated with a statewide
healthcare network. Site assessments based on the ADA Accessibility Guidelines
for Buildings and Facilities were performed at 30 primary care and specialty care
clinics. Clinical managers completed a questionnaire on standard practices for
examining and treating patients whose primary means of mobility is a wheelchair.
We found a majority of restrooms (83%) and examination rooms (93%) were
noncompliant with one or more ADA requirements. Seventy percent of clinical
managers reported not owning a height-adjustable examination table or wheelchair
accessible weight scale. Furthermore, patients were examined in their wheelchairs
(70%-87%), asked to bring someone to assist with transfers (30%), or referred
elsewhere due to an inaccessible clinic (6%). These methods of accommodation are
not compliant with the ADA. We recommend clinics conduct ADA self-assessments and
provide training for clinical staff on the ADA and requirements for accommodating individuals with mobility disabilities.

Langue : ANGLAIS