Equitable Care for Patients With Disabilities: Considerations for the Gynecologic Health Care Professional.

Publication/Presentation Date

4-1-2024

Abstract

All patients deserve high-quality health care. Patients with disabilities have historically experienced discrimination in health care and subsequently detrimental health outcomes. Health care professionals often lack confidence and preparedness in treating patients with disabilities effectively. Barriers such as communication difficulties, biased assumptions, and inadequate equipment hinder comprehensive care. These barriers to care lead to health inequalities and a diminished overall quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Existing clinical guidelines for care of this underserved population are lacking. This article establishes a comprehensive educational framework and accessible reference tools for gynecologic health care professionals to enhance their ability to offer inclusive and effective care to patients with disabilities. Insights in this article stem from expert consensus among clinicians experienced in this field and ongoing dialog with community-based disability care partners. We present actionable steps to cultivate an open, adaptable, and patient-centric method to actively engage patients and to provide suitable accommodations when needed.

Volume

143

Issue

4

First Page

475

Last Page

483

ISSN

1873-233X

Disciplines

Business Administration, Management, and Operations | Health and Medical Administration | Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods

PubMedID

38176014

Department(s)

Administration and Leadership

Document Type

Article

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