UI Health Advances Integrated Primary Care for People with Disabilities
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UI Health is delivering primary care for children and adults with developmental disabilities, while preparing the next generation of physicians who will receive special training in caring for this population. The Lifespan Disability Clinic uses an interdisciplinary approach to provide a wide spectrum of care and support. The core team in the clinic are physicians, social workers and a community health worker. The other team members include physical therapists, dentists, behavioral health providers and we will soon be adding a dietitian and occupational therapist. Each working closely with individuals and families to achieve their care goals, including appropriate accommodations, the coordination of care and services, supporting the transition to adulthood.
As of August this year, under a $2 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, fourth-year medical students have the opportunity of a two-week rotation at the Lifespan Disability Clinic, experiencing this interprofessional environment and acquiring skills such as meeting patients’ communications needs or making a space physically accessible. On the final day of their rotation, they are presented with a simulated case, with “patients” who are actors with disabilities, presenting a scenario for the medical students.