Health and Wellness: ADA 25 and Beyond

As we reach the quarter-century mark since the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), we should recognize and celebrate the freedom and independence it has made possible. Yet, we must not forget that countless people with disabilities continue to go without sufficient healthcare because architectural, communications and policy-driven barriers persist.

“Let this shameful wall

of exclusion finally

come tumbling down.”

George H.W. Bush

Upon signing of ADA

July 26, 1990

History has taught us, though, that there is hope; and the key to making that hope reality lies in those who believe in the promise of equality that ADA founders and advocates fought for with unwavering diligence. We must carry on, echoing the message of Disability equality in everything, including our healthcare. Let’s give voice to the cause by speaking up when we encounter situations that diminish our access to health and wellness. Courtesy of Disability.gov, check out these handy resources and share them with your healthcare providers today:

US Dept. of Justice: Access To Medical Care For Individuals With Mobility Disabilities

http://www.ada.gov/medcare_mobility_ta/medcare_ta.htm

ADA Business BRIEF: Communicating with People Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in Hospital Settings

http://www.ada.gov/hospcombr.htm

U.S. Access Board Guide to ADA Standards Chapter 2: New Construction

http://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/buildings-and-sites/about-the-ada-standards/guide-to-the-ada-standards/chapter-2-new-construction#top

U.S. Access Board Guide to ADA Standards Chapter 2: Alterations and Additions

http://www.access-board.gov/guidelines-and-standards/buildings-and-sites/about-the-ada-standards/guide-to-the-ada-standards/chapter-2-alterations-and-additions

Health Care and the ADA

Rocky Mountain ADA Center

http://www.adainformation.org/healthcare

“How’s Your Healthcare?” Join with LICIL as we aim to change access to health and wellness in our local community. Contact Kelly to learn more. 516-796-0144 (Voice); 516-796-0135 (TTY); Kellym@licil.com.