CTuJ2 - Invisible No More: Ensuring Health Access for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Session Description: Though intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) affect more than 8 million people in the United States, this population remains overlooked. Individuals with IDD face disproportionate challenges in accessing healthcare, 72% of adults with disabilities report not receiving the accommodations they need in health care settings. Individuals with IDD are more likely than those without disabilities to experience preventable health conditions due to Social Drivers of Health (SDOH) and when these individuals belong to marginalized groups, the disparities are further compounded.

This session will delve into the impact of disability inclusive SDOH screening implementation and response and how it plays a role in addressing health inequities among all patients. As one of the only CHCs whose primary focus is serving individuals with IDD, Achievable Health, will share their unique approach to patient care, sharing insights from their SDOH screening and how they have achieved equal or greater health outcomes for patients with IDD, overcoming health disparities experienced by this population. They will share valuable lessons learned throughout the process and speak to challenges in securing funding to serve this “invisible population”.

Efforts to address SDOH in people with IDD requires tailored strategies, including training for staff, modifications to workflows, and establishing disability-focused community partnerships to respond to patient needs. Strategies that improve care for patients with IDD can be applied to whole-person care strategies for people without disabilities, meaning tools and resources shared in the session can be leveraged by CHCs to improve patient care across all patient populations.