1. Preventing Barriers in Cancer Services for Iowans with Disabilities
Iowa Cancer Summit October 19, 2017 Karin Ford, MSPS Maggie Ferguson, MS

2. Objectives Grant background and activities Outcomes
Outcomes from site visits
Increasing options

3. Office of Disability and Health
Funding since 1996
Inclusive Health and Wellness Initiative for Iowans with Disabilities
Grant activities have include
Accessibility
Inclusion
Disaster planning
Advocacy
Technical assistance

4. Numbers in Iowa ACS, American Community Survey
BRFSS, Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System
Approximately 12 %, or 373,137 Iowans live with one or more disabilities
Iowans with disabilities are more likely to:
smoke (35.4% vs 16.0%)
be obese (45.1% vs 27.3%)
be inactive (44.1% vs 25.6%)
Woman with disabilities in Iowa over 40 are less likely to get a mammogram

5. Site Visits of Breast and Cervical Cancer Centers in Iowa
completed 16 site visits across Iowa
Focus was on physical access
Parking
Entry
Interior circulation
Bathrooms
Exam rooms
Changing areas

6. Site Visits of Mammography Clinics in Iowa
Guidance for staff
Asking if patient would need assistance or accommodation
Including extra time for the appointment
Can patient transfer from wheelchair to chair
Can patient sit independently
Can patient remain steady for pictures
Can patient lift and move arms

7. Results/Findings Physical locations were accessible
Parking lots and signage
Health staff knowledgeable

8. Why the Low Numbers? Reoccurring themes
PWD assume the office isn’t accessible
Have limited transportation
Health professionals approach care for PWD differently

9. New Approach Began promoting accessibility to providers
Simple as including accessibility logo
Provided guidance on printed material in alternate formats
Ensuring websites are accessible

10. Tips for Developing Disability-Friendly Practices
Anticipate needs; ask about accommodations when scheduling
Use person-first language
Improve health literacy of patients with disabilities
Use inclusive marketing strategies
Partner with Disability Service Providers

11. Opportunities to Address Health Disparities
Collaboration with people with disabilities and family members
Encourage providers to discuss healthy eating, physical activity, weight status
14 Weeks to a Healthier You

12. Resources Iowa Department of Public Health
University of Iowa Center for Disabilities and Development

13. Contact Information
Karin Ford Maggie Ferguson