Introducing Accessibility & Health

In partnership with Utah's Department of Health & Human Services (DHHS), the IDRPP at Utah State University is enhancing accessibility and inclusion for individuals with disabilities through a new project named Accessibility & Health. Our resources, initially for local health departments, are beneficial for various organizations.

People with disabilities face health disparities due to systemic issues. By offering state and local resources, we aim to foster inclusivity. Our project will feature a resource guide, quarterly trainings, and this monthly newsletter. Thank you for connecting with us!

ADA Highlight - Final Rule Update (May 1, 2024)

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) finalized a rule to "advance equity and bolster protections for people with disabilities". This rule, titled Discrimination on the Basis of Disability in Health and Human Service Programs or Activities, updated regulations to clarify obligations in key areas:

Ensures medical decisions are not based on biases against individuals with disabilities.
Prohibits using disability to deny access to services.
Sets accessibility standards for websites and mobile apps.
Adopts the U.S. Access Board's standards for medical equipment, like exam tables and mammography machines.
Details nondiscrimination requirements for HHS-funded child welfare agencies.
Clarifies obligations for services in the most integrated settings.
Aligns with ADA to improve compliance.

Little girl with curly dark hair pictured smiling in a wheelchair with supportive straps across her chest, holding her upright.

An older woman pointing at a computer screen, sitting with a younger woman who appears to be helping her.

Help Us Improve ADA Compliance Training!

Are you a health care worker passionate about accessibility? We need your expertise to test the usability of our new ADA compliance training materials!

Click the link to join our 2 hour focus group and make a difference in public health departments across Utah.

Your feedback is

invaluable!

Questions? Email Elle at Rebecca.Smith@usu.edu or Dr. Chen at Chen.Chen@usu.edu.

This study was approved by USU IRB. Protocol #14360.

JOIN

Upcoming Trainings

Disability and Health Meeting with LHDs and USU

Date: Wednesday, June 5, from 12:00-1:30 PM

Discuss USU IDRPP's resources and upcoming trainings, local health departments and barriers to accessibility, and conversation about what accessibility and inclusion efforts are happening around the state.

JOIN

Culturally Responsive Considerations for Working with Individuals from Diverse Backgrounds in Healthcare Settings

Date: Thursday, June 27, from 12:30-1:30 PM

Presenter: Dr. Eduardo Ortiz

This webinar will include content and discussions of several health and healthcare related topics for diverse multicultural populations.

We will discuss:

Social demographics and health disparities
Challenges when working with multicultural populations
Strategies for cultural responsiveness to enhance health outcomes

Join us to enhance your understanding and competence in serving diverse communities effectively.

Health Department Highlight

Looking for ideas to make your website easily accessible for all? Salt Lake County's website is a great example of simplicity and functionality.

CHECK IT OUT

Screenshot of the Salt Lake County Health Department website.

(435) 797-1981