Caring for Patients with Disabilities
When caring for patients with disabilities, it is essential to remember that a disability is not an illness. Patients with disabilities may need more time for appointments and additional assistance with dressing, undressing, and positioning. It is also necessary to consider the patient’s vulnerabilities and provide them with the information, motivation, and resources they need to engage in their care. Care guides can help provide this support, and they can also help to build a strong relationship between the patient and their healthcare team. By taking the time to understand the patient’s needs and to provide them with the support they need, physicians can help to ensure that all patients receive the best possible care.
Here are some additional tips for caring for patients with disabilities:
- Be respectful of the patient’s privacy and dignity.
- Ask the patient how they would like to be addressed.
- Use simple language and avoid jargon.
- Be patient and understanding.
- Provide the patient with the opportunity to ask questions.
- Work with the patient and their family to develop a treatment plan that meets their needs.
By following these tips, physicians can provide compassionate and quality care to all patients, regardless of their abilities.
Caring For Patients with Disabilities (Kolesk, Physicians Practice, 6/6).
