As a result, some people with disabilities only pursue medical attention for emergency or acute conditions, making primary and preventive health care services low priorities. From the provider's perspective, limitations in the physical environment, such as the lack of appropriate equipment, may cause doctors and other professionals to forgo, omit, or not recommend procedures or portions of procedures for people with disabilities that would otherwise be commonplace. Increasing accessibility at health care facilities will encourage more people to seek out services, thus increasing client bases as well as the general health of individuals with disabilities. Providing Universal Access Universal access or universal design is a concept, that, when applied to environments, ensures that facilities, products, and services are usable by all people. Everyone, regardless of ability, benefits from universal design.
Wide doors make moving equipment and furniture easier for everyone.
Spacious toilet rooms provide space for wheelchair users but also accommodate parents with strollers or several children. A place to sit while transacting business is good for anyone when they are tired, not feeling well, or pregnant. Recommended universal design features, such as power door operators and adjustable-height examining and treatment tables, work well for everyone including children and older adults. Some people-accommodating features also add to the value of the property, create a more interactive environment, relieve staff of unnecessary extra work, and help maintain a comfortable place to work and visit. Going beyond the minimum requirements makes your facility more usable for all patients.