Improving Health And Healthcare Equity Of People With Intellectual And Developmental Disabilities

Children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities have worse health compared to their typically developing peers. This health difference is not attributed to having a disability but, rather, primarily results from social and environmental factors. In this presentation, we will identify these social determinants of health and related health inequities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We will then discuss opportunities and specific strategies to promote health and wellbeing. Finally, we will discuss the challenges of finding healthcare professionals who really listen to and respect people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Disability inclusive healthcare training will be proposed as essential to creating a disability competent healthcare workforce.

 

Susan Havercamp, PhD

Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health

Director of Health Promotion and Healthcare Parity

The Ohio State University Nisonger Center

Columbus, OH