South Middlesex Times

People with disabilities face significant challenges in accessing health care and often experience negative interactions with health care providers compared to those without disabilities, according to a recent study by Rutgers Health. The research was published in Health Services Research by scholars from the Rutgers Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, and the Rutgers School of Public Health.

The study analyzed satisfaction ratings, timeliness of care, and patient-provider interactions among U.S. adults to assess differences in health care experiences between individuals with and without disabilities. Previous research indicates that one in four Americans has a disability. These individuals encounter substantial health disparities due to structural inequities within health systems that hinder their access to quality health care.

Utilizing data from a nationally representative survey, researchers evaluated the reported experiences of patients based on varying disability statuses. Findings revealed that people with disabilities rated their received health care services lower than the general population. For instance, these patients were less likely to report that providers listened carefully, spent adequate time with them, provided understandable advice or treated them respectfully.

Elizabeth Stone from the Center for Health Services Research at Rutgers Institute emphasized the need for "disability-competent and affirming health care," especially amidst policies impacting disabled patients facing scrutiny. Stone highlighted Section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as a critical policy prohibiting discrimination against disabled individuals by federally funded programs. This section was updated in July 2024 to bolster protections for disabled persons in health care settings; however, it faces legal challenges as 17 states filed a lawsuit seeking its repeal in fall 2024.

The study also discovered that individuals with multiple disabilities reported the lowest satisfaction levels. Those with physical, cognitive, and multiple disabilities experienced notably worse interactions with healthcare services than those with sensory disabilities.

Stephen Crystal and Hillary Samples from Rutgers Institute for Health coauthored the study alongside Sofia Bonsignore from Rutgers School of Public Health.

"Addressing disparities in the quality of health care for patients with disabilities requires unique approaches dependent on people’s specific needs," Stone added. "But ultimately, interventions at the structural level are needed to address these concerning disparities in patient experiences."