Improving Accessibility in the Emergency Department for Patients with Disabilities: A Qualitative Study

In this study we investigate the ED experience from the perspective of patients living with physical and cognitive disability, as well as visual impairment and blindness, to better understand the barriers to accessibility in the ED for these populations.Methods: Twelve individuals with either physical or cognitive disabilities, visual impairments or blindness were interviewed regarding their ED experiences, particularly related to accessibility. Interviews were transcribed and coded for qualitative analysis with generation of significant themes relating to accessibility in the ED.Results: Major themes from coded analysis were as follows: 1) inadequate communication between staff...
Source: Western Journal of Emergency Medicine - Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Source Type: research