To address the pressing need for changes in the healthcare industry to better accommodate people with extra challenges, we sought insights from seven professionals in the medical and healthcare fields. Their suggestions range from needing access to disability-friendly medical equipment to implementing inclusive and patient-centered care models. Dive into the wisdom shared by these experts, from first aid training directors to business heads, to gain a comprehensive understanding of this critical issue.
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- Accessing Disability-Friendly Medical Equipment
- Adopting a Patient-Driven and Holistic Approach
- Breaking Down Healthcare Compartmentalization
- Tailoring Individualized Care Plans
- Promoting Flexibility and Telemedicine
- Implementing Inclusive and Patient-Centered Care Models
Accessing Disability-Friendly Medical Equipment
In my personal experience, one aspect in desperate need of transformation within the healthcare industry is the accessibility of disability-friendly medical equipment. Take my friend, for example.
He lives with cerebral palsy, and routine check-ups become a taxing ordeal because of equipment not suited for his needs. One day, a simple blood pressure reading escalated into an unnecessarily stressful experience because the standard cuff didn't fit properly. It was heartbreaking to watch.
If more medical institutions could adopt and regularly use specialized equipment that caters to the unique needs of patients with conditions like cerebral palsy or autism, it would significantly ease their healthcare experiences and make them feel more understood and cared for.
Derek Bruce, First Aid Training Director, Skills Training Group
Adopting a Patient-Driven and Holistic Approach
In my professional experience, the healthcare industry needs to embrace a more patient-driven and holistic approach. Because every patient is unique, with their own experiences, struggles, conditions, and emotions, we cannot adopt a one-size-fits-all approach.
We must prioritize patient autonomy and empowerment, encouraging active participation in their healthcare choices. For instance, we could focus on an individual's strengths and adapt strategies that fit their unique life situation.
This personalization supports a stronger sense of ownership and engagement, leading to better mental health and well-being outcomes.
Bayu Prihandito, Psychology Expert, Life Coach, and Founder, Life Architekture
Breaking Down Healthcare Compartmentalization
Healthcare is too compartmentalized. Patients are frequently told, "Go see X for that, Y for this," with every medical professional working in a silo. This leads to many appointments, frustration, and fractured care.
All patients need holistic care, especially patients who have chronic congenital conditions such as cerebral palsy. These conditions affect every aspect of life and require a unified team approach to provide support around these areas.
Restorative therapies such as physical therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy should not be optional treatments, as these are vital components of care in optimizing function and quality of life. Holistic care is necessary in the healthcare industry.
Elisha Peterson MD Med FAAP FASA, Anesthesiologist and Pain Medicine Physician, Elisha Peterson MD PLLC
Tailoring Individualized Care Plans
The healthcare industry must do more to welcome and include persons with additional requirements, such as autism and cerebral palsy.
Healthcare professionals should tailor individualized care plans for the specific requirements of each patient with autism or cerebral palsy. These plans must consider all relevant means of communication, behavioral techniques, and alterations to the physical environment.
By making this change, the healthcare system may better accommodate persons with such disabilities and others, fostering acceptance and enhancing treatment for all patients.
Dr. Thanu Jey, Medical Director and Founder, MediBrace
Promoting Flexibility and Telemedicine
Healthcare can be a demanding industry for any worker, but especially so for those with extra challenges. The long and unusual hours that healthcare professionals often need to work can particularly be a barrier for those who are neurodivergent or have physical disabilities that limit how many hours they can reasonably be asked to work in a given day or week.
While the needs of the patients need to be considered too, there are ways to strike a balance and provide care when it's needed without overloading the team members who provide that care.
The increase in telemedicine can be an effective part of this solution, opening up new ways for healthcare workers to interact with patients without needing to be on-site for 10-12 hours at a stretch. Making these kinds of changes can also help employees without these limitations achieve and maintain a better work-life balance, so emphasizing greater flexibility can benefit the entire team.
Carlos Da Silva, Physician Assistant, PA Career Hub
Implementing Inclusive and Patient-Centered Care Models
In my professional opinion, one crucial change that needs to occur in the healthcare industry to better accommodate individuals with extra challenges, such as autism and cerebral palsy, is the implementation of inclusive and patient-centered care models.
Healthcare providers should prioritize understanding and addressing the unique needs of these individuals by offering tailored communication approaches, sensory-friendly environments, and specialized care plans.
Also, healthcare professionals need to receive comprehensive training and education on neurodiversity, ensuring they have the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate and effective care.
By embracing inclusivity and adapting healthcare practices, we can create a more accessible and supportive environment for individuals with extra challenges, promoting their overall well-being and quality of care.
Brian Clark, Founder, United Medical Education
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several changes that need to be implemented in the healthcare industry to better accommodate people with extra challenges. First, there needs to be a shift towards a more patient-centered approach, where individuals' unique needs and circumstances are taken into account. Additionally, accessible and affordable healthcare services must be made available to all individuals, regardless of their disability or special needs.
Furthermore, healthcare facilities should be equipped with the necessary accommodations and assistive technologies to ensure equal access for all patients. There also needs to be improved communication and coordination among healthcare providers and specialists involved in the care of individuals with extra challenges. Finally, education and training programs should be developed for healthcare professionals to enhance their understanding of the specific needs of this population.
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