The Fight for Equal Access: Problems People With Disabilities Face in the Healthcare System

While the world is becoming more accessible thanks to inclusion education and advancements in technology, some industries still lack equal access for those with disabilities.

Unfortunately, the healthcare system is one of them.

It seems ironic, considering the industry should be one of the most well-versed in knowing what people with disabilities need and how to keep them on an even playing field. But, there are plenty of problems those with disabilities have to deal with in the healthcare system, even in these modern times.

The Big Issue: Quality of Care

There will always be things hospitals and private practices need to change and update when it comes to accessibility. That includes things like:

Adopting technology that’s usable for hearing and vision-impaired people
Creating an open space with ramps for those with mobility issues
Training staff to assist those in need

Unfortunately, these are small issues when it comes to the greater underlying problem the industry faces – a lack of quality care.

There are so many misconceptions and negative attitudes toward people with disabilities, that it has been documented multiple times that they receive less care and attention than able-bodied people. One 1994 study of 238 emergency care workers found that 28% believed the future quality of life should play a role in determining what interventions should be provided.

Quality of life has always played a role in the bias against people with disabilities. Multiple instances of medical professionals denying care or surgeries to those with disabilities, or putting their procedures off longer have been noted over the years. Simply put, it would appear that some people in the healthcare industry don’t believe people with disabilities deserve as much care because they’ll never be able to achieve the quality of life that an able-bodied person has.

While the ADA requires healthcare facilities to provide full and equal access to those with disabilities, these instances show that stereotypes and unwarranted biases are still causing problems within the industry.

What Needs to Be Done

So, what can be done to take away disability bias in the healthcare system and help those with disabilities fight for equal access?

It starts from within.

Nurses, for example, have an obligation to be advocates for their patients. Advocacy includes:

Apprising patients with correct information
Championing social justice within the system
Mediating
Safeguarding
Valuing patients’ decisions

Nursing advocacy is important for public health, in general. But, it’s crucial when working with people who have any type of disability – including those with developmental disabilities who rely on others to help them work through decisions and problem-solving issues. However, we’re living in a time when nurses are being underpaid and overworked. The healthcare system, as a whole, is struggling thanks to a worker shortage. While people can point fingers all day to place blame on that shortage, it doesn’t change the fact that it’s a problem impacting more than just those directly in the healthcare system.

There is no reason you can’t live well with a disability. That includes getting the healthcare you deserve. While it’s important to be your own advocate and speak up about any inequalities you see, consider teaming up with any friends or family members you know in the healthcare system. Again, change will come from within. The more you can educate and correctly influence those who can make a difference, the more likely they’ll be to change the broken system.

About Noah Rue

Noah Rue has written 11 posts in this blog.

Noah Rue is a journalist and content writer, fascinated with the intersection between global health, personal wellness, and modern technology. When he isn't searching out his next great writing opportunity, Noah likes to shut off his devices and head to the mountains to disconnect.