Where Policy Meets Practice: Accessibility in Education and Healthcare
taught by: Christine Foushi
Session Summary
Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that public entities, including educational institutions and healthcare providers, provide equal access to services for individuals with disabilities. This presentation will delve into the key requirements of Title II, focusing on its implications for both the education and healthcare sectors.
Description
Title II mandates public entities, including hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers, must provide equal access to services for individuals with disabilities. Title II mandates that educational institutions provide equal access to education for all students, including those with disabilities. With the increasing reliance on digital tools and resources, presentation will explore the key requirements of Title II related to healthcare and digital content accessibility, focusing on:
- Defining accessibility and understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the education sector and healthcare services.
- Focusing on key requirements including physical accessibility, communication access (including sign language interpreters. assistive listening devices, and alternative formats), access to information (including accessible websites and patient portals(, and digital learning materials, including websites, online courses, multimedia presentations, and digital assessments.
- Technology and accessibility: Discussing the role of technology in improving accessibility, including electronic health records (EHRs), telemedicine, and other digital health tools, and assistive technologies.
- Best practices for compliance: Conducting workflow and accessibility audits, developing and implementing accessibility policies, and training staff on accessibility best practices.
- Addressing communication barriers: Exploring strategies for effective communication with people with disabilities, including the use of assistive listening devices, sign language interpreters, and other communication aids.
- Legal and ethical implications: Discussing the legal and ethical responsibilities of healthcare organizations and educational institutions in provide accessible services to individuals with disabilities.
- Practical strategies for implementation: Offering practical tips and resources for educators and the healthcare field to create and implement accessible experiences.
Practical Skills
- Understand the key requirements of Title II.
- Develop strategies to ensure compliance with Title II requirements.
- Bring awareness and apply best practices for creating accessible services.