The Times examines the reasons why people with disabilities continue to receive substandard medical care. Most outpatient clinics are ill-equipped to serve patients with disabilities, particularly those of us who have limited or zero mobility. The staff have little training on how to safely transfer people with disabilities and the exam rooms lack accessible equipment. As a result, people with disabilities may only receive partial exams that may overlook potential problems.
I experienced this firsthand a couple months ago when I went to see my doctor with what turned out to be a urinary tract infection. The exam room lacked a table that would allow me to lie prone, which made it difficult for the doctor to examine me. She nearly sent me home to collect a urine sample, which would have only delayed my diagnosis and treatment. It might have made more sense for me to simply go to the emergency room, but I shouldn’t be forced to visit the ER to receive adequate care for a relatively minor issue.
Mark, you might want to try the clinic at Courage Center. I know I work there, but I’m also a client. Low exam tables, doctors and staff who understand disability. I love it.