This article shows that the AHA is still unaware of a serious gap – persons with disabilities. While it is important to address racial and ethnic disparities, this group needs to be reminded that persons with disabilities are the third largest market segment in the United States. At this time, physical access to healthcare is seriously lacking and attitudes toward persons with disabilities range from dismissive to overly solicitous, skipping respect and accommodations. Medical schools and nursing schools routinely discriminate against applicants with physical disabilities, making it even more difficult to recognize the importance of this demographic.
One possible solution would be for the healthcare industry to stop looking at disability in the medical model and start looking at this population as a market segment. For purposes of patient care, employee safety and equal respect and opportunities for all, this needs to be addressed sooner rather than later.
Annette Bourbonniere
401-846-1960
Fax: 401-846-1944
Twitter: @AccessInclude
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