Adrsng Health Status Inequit

2 Credits · Level: Graduate, Undergraduate

Title: Addressing the Health Status and Health Inequities Among Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Across the Life Span Individuals with intellectual and developmental (I/DD) are often excluded in the medical school curriculum. They experience a cascade of disparities as an underserved minority who face stigma and discrimination, along with disadvantages associated with social determinants such as housing, employment, the trauma of institutionalization, and limited education access. This course will cover a comprehensive profile of the health needs of people with developmental disabilities. Students will begin with a review of the history of disability health, including evolving definitions of I/DD and will gain knowledge of the developmental profiles associated with certain health risks, including syndromic conditions. Optimal health management will be addressed within the context of providing inclusive health care by addressing effective communication, health inequalities and barriers to service delivery, reforming policy and legislation. Students will explore strategies and programs that promote a public health perspective resulting in healthier lifestyles, improved healthcare access, and the role that self- determination, self-efficacy and self-advocacy play in the maintenance of health among people with developmental disabilities. Students will be exposed to collaborative knowledge building around I/DD health policy issues and learn about the importance of communities of practice