Technical Assistance:
https://www.ada.gov/medcare_mobility_ta/medcare_ta.htm
“Accessibility of doctors' offices, clinics, and other health care providers is essential in providing medical care to people with disabilities. Due to barriers, individuals with disabilities are less likely to get routine preventative medical care than people without disabilities. Accessibility is not only legally required, it is important medically so that minor problems can be detected and treated before turning into major and possibly life-threatening problems….”
https://beta.ada.gov/resources/medical-care-mobility/
“Accessibility of doctors’ offices, clinics, and other health care providers is essential in providing medical care to people with disabilities. Due to barriers, individuals with disabilities are less likely to get routine preventative medical care than people without disabilities. Accessibility is not only legally required, it is important medically so that minor problems can be detected and treated before turning into major and possibly life-threatening problems….”
https://www.ada.gov/effective-comm.htm
“This publication is designed to help title II and title III entities (“covered entities”) understand how the rules for effective communication, including rules that went into effect on March 15, 2011, apply to them.
The purpose of the effective communication rules is to ensure that the person with a vision, hearing, or speech disability can communicate with, receive information from, and convey information to, the covered entity.
Covered entities must provide auxiliary aids and services when needed to communicate effectively with people who have communication disabilities.
The key to communicating effectively is to consider the nature, length, complexity, and context of the communication and the person’s normal method(s) of communication.
The rules apply to communicating with the person who is receiving the covered entity’s goods or services as well as with that person’s parent, spouse, or companion in appropriate circumstances….”
Commonly Asked Questions:
https://beta.ada.gov/resources/medical-care-mobility/#part-2:--commonly-asked-questions
“Is it OK to examine a patient who uses a wheelchair in the wheelchair, because the patient cannot get onto the exam table independently?
Generally no. Examining a patient in their wheelchair usually is less thorough than on the exam table, and does not provide the patient equal medical services. There are several ways to make the exam table accessible to a person using a wheelchair. A good option is to have a table that adjusts down to the level of a wheelchair, approximately 17-19 inches from the floor. (See Part 4 of this publication for a more in-depth discussion of accessible exam tables.) What is important is that a person with a disability receives equal medical services to those received by a person without a disability. If the examination does not require that a person lie down (for example, an examination of the face), then the exam table is not important to the medical care and the patient may remain seated.
Can I tell a patient that I cannot treat her because I don't have accessible medical equipment?
Generally no. You cannot deny service to a patient whom you would otherwise serve because she has a disability. You must examine the patient as you would any patient. In order to do so, you may need to provide an accessible exam table, an accessible stretcher or gurney, or a patient lift, or have enough trained staff available who can assist the patient to transfer.
Is it OK to tell a patient who has a disability to bring along someone who can help at the exam?
No. If a patient chooses to bring along a friend or family member to the appointment, they may. However, a patient with a disability, just like other individuals, may come to an appointment alone, and the provider must provide reasonable assistance to enable the individual to receive the medical care. This assistance may include helping the patient to undress and dress, get on and off the exam table or other equipment, and lie back and be positioned on the examination table or other equipment. Once on the exam table, some patients may need a staff person to stay with them to help maintain balance and positioning. The provider should ask the patient if he or she needs any assistance and, if so, what is the best way to help.
If the patient does bring an assistant or a family member, do I talk to the patient or the companion? Should the companion remain in the room while I examine the patient and while discussing the medical problem or results?
You should always address the patient directly, not the companion, as you would with any other patient. Just because the patient has a disability does not mean that he or she cannot speak for him or herself or understand the exam results. It is up to the patient to decide whether a companion remains in the room during your exam or discussion with the patient. The patient may have brought a companion to assist in getting to the exam, but would prefer to ask the companion to leave the room before the doctor begins a substantive discussion. Before beginning your examination or discussion, you should ask the patient if he or she wishes the companion to remain in the room.
Can I decide not to treat a patient with a disability because it takes me longer to examine them, and insurance won't reimburse me for the additional time? expandalbe
I have an accessible exam table, but if it is in use when a patient with a disability comes in for an appointment, is it OK to make the patient wait for the room to open up, or else use an exam table that is not accessible?
Generally, a patient with a disability should not wait longer than other patients because they are waiting for a particular exam table. If the patient with a disability has made an appointment in advance, the staff should reserve the room with the accessible exam table for that patient’s appointment. The receptionist should ask each individual who calls to make an appointment if the individual will need any assistance at the examination because of a disability. This way, the medical provider can be prepared to provide the assistance and staff needed. Accessibility needs should be noted in the patient’s chart so the provider is prepared to accommodate the patient on future visits as well. If the medical provider finds that it cannot successfully reserve the room with the accessible exam table for individuals with disabilities, then the provider should consider acquiring additional accessible exam tables so that more exam rooms are available for individuals with disabilities.
In a doctor's office or clinic with multiple exam rooms, must every examination room have an accessible exam table and sufficient clear floor space next to the exam table?
Probably not. The medical care provider must be able to provide its services in an accessible manner to individuals with disabilities. In order to do so, accessible equipment is usually necessary. However, the number of accessible exam tables needed by the medical care provider depends on the size of the practice, the patient population, and other factors. One accessible exam table may be sufficient in a small doctor’s practice, while more will likely be necessary in a large clinic. (See Part 4 for discussion of accessible exam tables and clear floor space.)
I don't want to discriminate against patients with disabilities, but I don't want my staff to injure their backs by lifting people who use wheelchairs onto exam tables. If my nurse has a bad back, then she doesn't have to help lift a patient, does she?
Staff should be protected from injury, but that doesn’t justify refusing to provide equal medical services to individuals with disabilities. The medical provider can protect his or her staff from injury by providing accessible equipment, such as an adjustable exam table and/or a ceiling or floor based patient lift, and training on proper patient handling techniques as necessary to provide equal medical services to a patient with a disability. (See Part 4 for more information on this equipment.)
What should I do if my staff do not know how to help a person with a disability transfer or know what the ADA requires my office to do? Also, I am unsure how to examine someone with spasticity or paralysis.
To provide medical services in an accessible manner, the medical provider and staff will likely need to receive training. This training will need to address how to operate the accessible equipment, how to assist with transfers and positioning of individuals with disabilities, and how not to discriminate against individuals with disabilities. Local or national disability organizations may be able to provide training for your staff. This document and other technical assistance materials found on the ADA Website (www.ada.gov) can be used in conjunction with live training to train medical staff. The U.S. Department of Justice ADA Information Line is another resource. Anyone can call the Information Line at 800-514-0301 (voice) or 1-833-610-1264 (TTY) to speak with an ADA Specialist to get answers to questions about the ADA. Additionally, when preparing to assist a patient with a disability, it is always best to ask the patient if assistance is needed and if so, what is the best way to help. If the provider is unsure of how to handle something, it is absolutely OK to ask the patient what works best.
If I lease my medical office space, am I responsible for making sure the examination room, waiting room, and toilet rooms are accessible?
Yes. Any private entity that owns, leases or leases to, or operates a place of public accommodation is responsible for complying with Title III of the ADA. Both tenants and landlords are equally responsible for complying with the ADA. However, your lease with the landlord may specify that, as between the parties, the landlord is responsible for some or all of the accessibility requirements of the space. Frequently, the tenant is made responsible for the space it uses and controls (e.g., the examination rooms and reception area), while the landlord is responsible for common space, such as toilet rooms used by more than one tenant.
Are there any tax breaks for making accessibility changes to my medical office?
Yes. Subject to IRS rules, federal tax credits and deductions are available to private businesses to offset expenses incurred to comply with the ADA. See Form 8826 at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8826.pdf for additional information about the Disabled Access Credit established under Section 44 of the Internal Revenue Code. See Publication 535 (Number 7: Barrier Removal) at www.irs.gov/publications/p535/index.html for more information about the tax deduction, established under Section 190 of the Internal Revenue Code. Both the tax credit and deduction may be taken annually….”
https://beta.ada.gov/resources/medical-care-mobility/#part-3--accessible-examination-rooms
“Accessible Examination Rooms
Accessible examination room has features that make it possible for patients with mobility disabilities, including those who use wheelchairs, to receive appropriate medical care. These features allow the patient to enter the examination room, move around in the room, and utilize the accessible equipment provided. The features that make this possible are:
an accessible route to and through the room;
an entry door with adequate clear width, maneuvering clearance, and accessible hardware;
appropriate models and placement of accessible examination equipment (See Part 4 for detailed discussion of accessible examination equipment.); and
adequate clear floor space inside the room for side transfers and use of lift equipment.
New and altered examination rooms must meet requirements of the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. Accessible examination rooms may need additional floor space to accommodate transfers and for certain equipment, such as a floor lift…..”
https://beta.ada.gov/resources/medical-care-mobility/#part-4--accessible-medical-equipment
“Availability of accessible medical equipment is an important part of providing accessible medical care, and doctors and other providers must ensure that medical equipment is not a barrier to individuals with disabilities. This section provides examples of accessible medical equipment and how it is used by people with mobility disabilities. Such equipment includes adjustable-height exam tables and chairs, wheelchair-accessible scales, adjustable-height radiologic equipment, portable floor and overhead track lifts, and gurneys and stretchers….”
https://www.ada.gov/cguide.htm
“This guide provides an overview of Federal civil rights laws that ensure equal opportunity for people with disabilities…”
https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm
“This publication provides guidance on the term “service animal” and the service animal provisions in the Department’s regulations….”
https://www.ada.gov/taman3.html
“This technical assistance manual addresses the requirements of title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which applies to public accommodations, commercial facilities, and private entities offering certain examinations and courses. It is one of a series of publications issued by Federal agencies under section 506 of the ADA to assist individuals and entities in understanding their rights and duties under the Act….”
https://www.ada.gov/barrierfreehealthcare.htm
“Through the Barrier-Free Health Care Initiative, U.S. Attorneys' offices across the nation and the Department's Civil Rights Division target their enforcement efforts on a critical area for individuals with disabilities to access to medical services and facilities. The Barrier-Free Health Care Initiative is a multi-phase initiative that will include effective communication for people who are deaf or have hearing loss, physical access to medical care for people with mobility disabilities, and equal access to treatment for people who have HIV/AIDS.”
United States v. Dr. Chibuike Anucha, MD, PC Consent Decree –
Alleged discrimination against an individual with HIV by OB/GYN doctor who refused to provide routine medical services. The consent decree requires the doctor to pay $37,500 to the complainant and a $5,000 civil penalty, take (and provide his staff with) training on the ADA and the OB/GYN care of patients with HIV, implement a non-discrimination policy, and provide reports to the department. (2/17/22)
United States v. Dr. Umaima Jamaluddin, MD Consent Decree –
Alleged discrimination against an individual with HIV by OB/GYN doctor who refused to provide routine medical services. The consent decree requires the doctor to pay $37,500 to the complainant and a $5,000 civil penalty, take (and provide her staff with) training on the ADA and the OB/GYN care of patients with HIV, implement a non-discrimination policy, and provide reports to the department. (2/17/22)
Night and Day Dental Settlement Agreement –
Resolves complaint that the respondent discriminated against a woman with HIV who was seeking routine dental care when it refused to accept her as a new patient because of her HIV status, and by requiring certain bloodwork results from patients with HIV before deciding whether to provide dental care. The settlement agreement requires the respondent to pay $30,000 to the victim of the discrimination, train staff on the ADA, develop and use a non-discrimination policy, and file periodic reports with the Department on implementation of the agreement. (6/17/21)
New England Orthopedic Surgeons Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of an allegation that a medical provider in Springfield, Massachusetts, refused to perform a total joint replacement surgery on a patient because she was prescribed buprenorphine, a medication used to treat Opioid Use Disorder. The agreement includes maintaining a log that documents each patient or prospective patient receiving full-joint replacement surgeries, when the patient is on medication used to treat OUD and is denied any form of care; revising polices to be consistent with the agreement; training staff; submission of a draft non-discrimination policy and once approved, then posting the policy on the website and in the reception area; notice to the Department of any written or oral complaint alleging failure to provide total joint replacement on the basis of OUD treatments; and $30,000 to the United States to establish a settlement fund. (5/20/2021)
Brookside Rehabilitation & Nursing Center Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of an allegation that a nursing facility in Warrenton, Virginia, refused to accept an individual who was deaf because she needed sign language interpretive services and instead offered to provide only a message board for her to use. The agreement includes providing Patients and Companions who are deaf or hard of hearing with appropriate auxiliary aids and services; maintaining a log in which requests for auxiliary aids and services will be documented; establishing a grievance resolution mechanism; training staff; notice to the community and staff of effective communication policy; submission of bi-yearly reports to the Department for review; $40,000 in compensatory damages to the aggrieved individual; and $50,000 in civil penalty to the United States. (4/20/2021)
North Ft. Mitchell Dentistry Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of an allegation that a dentistry practice in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, did not have accessible parking spaces nor an accessible entrance, which created architectural barriers to access for an individual in a wheelchair. The agreement includes installation of a wheelchair lift at the rear entrance of the dentistry practice; creation of a van accessible parking space and access aisle; and submission of a narrative report to the Department that identifies modifications made to comply with the ADA. (4/20/2021)
Family & Internal Medicine of Dixwell Avenue Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of an allegation that a medical provider in Hamden, Connecticut, was not accessible to people with disabilities. The agreement includes physical access alterations and bi-yearly reports to the Department. (3/9/2021)
Mountain Peak Dentistry Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of an allegation that a medical provider in Lakewood, Colorado, failed to provide appropriate auxiliary aids and services for dental and periodontal appointments to a deaf individual whose primary means of communication is sign language. The agreement includes provision of auxiliary aids and services free of charge; adoption of a model assessment of communication needs of patients and companions; adoption of an effective communication policy; training staff; providing an annual report to the Department for review; $3,314 in compensatory damages to the individual; and $2,000 in a civil penalty to the United States. (2/26/2021)
Danbury Hospital Settlement Agreement–
Resolution of an allegation that a medical provider that provides wound care services in Danbury, Connecticut, denied an individual with a mobility disability full and equal access to services provided by the clinic because the clinic staff would not assist him in transferring onto the medical examination table and was told he would need to reschedule his appointment. The agreement includes adoption of a non-discrimination policy, posting the policy around all offices operated by the medical provider, training staff, $10,000 in compensatory damages to the aggrieved individual, and an annual report to the Department. (2/25/2021)
Pearl Periodontics Colorado Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of an allegation that a medical provider in Colorado, failed to provide appropriate auxiliary aids and services for dental and periodontal appointments to a deaf individual whose primary means of communication is sign language. The agreement includes provision of auxiliary aids and services free of charge; adoption of a model assessment of communication needs of patients and companions; adoption of an effective communication policy; training staff; providing an annual report to the Department for review; $3,314 in compensatory damages to the individual; and $2,000 in a civil penalty to the United States. (2/10/2021)
O.C. Medical Aesthetics, Inc. d/b/a South Coast MedSpa Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of an allegation that a California provider of cosmetic medical procedures refused to provide laser hair removal services to a customer with HIV, including adoption of a non-discrimination policy, training of staff, review by the Department of any relevant policies or procedures, annual reports to the Department, written notification to the Department of future complaints, $12,000 in compensatory damages for the individual, and $6,000 as a civil penalty. (1/28/2020)
Alliance Health & Human Services Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of a compliance review following allegations that Alliance-operated skilled nursing facilities, denied individuals admission on more than 350 occasions because the prospective patients were being treated with buprenorphine or methadone, which are medications used to treat OUD. The agreement includes adoption of a non-discrimination policy, which will be posted on the website and at the reception desk and will include information on who to contact if inquiries exist regarding the admission or care of people with OUD; training staff on Title III of the ADA and OUD; creation of an admissions intake log that documents each prospective patient who has OUD and whether or not the patient is being prescribed MAT; submission of reports every six months to the Department for review; notice to the Department of any complaint received that relates to admission or care of a person with OUD; and $50,000 as a civil penalty (if Alliance-operated facilities comply with the terms of the agreement then the payment of $40,000 to the United States will be suspended and forgiven.) (12/29/2020)
Swedish Medical Center First Hill Hospital Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of three allegations that a hospital located in Seattle, Washington, failed to provide effective communication, including sign language or tactile interpreters during medical appointments or care, surgical consultations, surgery, and/or pre- and post-operative surgical portions of the patient ’s medical care. The agreement includes providing interpreters in a timely manner; providing a communication assessment form to the patient or companion who is deaf, hard of hearing, or deaf-blind at the time an appointment is scheduled or upon arrival to the hospital; recording the need for auxiliary aids and services in a log and taking appropriate steps to ensure the appropriate staff are aware of the need for effective communication; designation of an ADA Communication Services Designee; creation of a complaint resolution mechanism for the investigation of disputes regarding effective communication; notice to patients and companions of the effective communication policy on both the website, the patient rights publication, intranet, and the signage around the hospital; documentation of all requests for interpreters; training staff; submission of bi-yearly compliance reports to the Department for review; $50,000 in compensatory damages for the first complainant; $10,000 in compensatory damages for the first complainant’s companion; $15,000 in compensatory damages for the second complainant; $15,000 in compensatory damages for the third complainant; and $50,000 in civil penalty to the United States. (11/25/2020)
Providence Holy Cross Hospital –
Resolution of an allegation that a hospital located in Mission Hills, California, failed to provide effective communication to a patient who is deaf, and instead relied on his adult children to interpret for him over the course of several consecutive days and for important procedures including surgery. The agreement includes providing interpreters in a timely manner; providing a communication assessment form to the patient or companion who is deaf or hard of hearing at the time an appointment is scheduled or upon arrival to the hospital; recording the need for auxiliary aids and services on the medical record and taking appropriate steps to ensure the appropriate staff are aware of the need for effective communication; designation of an ADA Coordinator; creation of a complaint resolution mechanism for the investigation of disputes regarding effective communication; notice to patients and companions of the effective communication policy on both the website, the patient handbook, and the signage around the hospital; documentation of all requests for interpreters; training staff; $75,000 in compensatory damages for the complainant; $12,500 in compensatory damages for the complainant’s daughter; and $12,500 in compensatory damages for the complainant’s son. (8/28/2020)
Massachusetts General Hospital –
Resolves complaint that the Hospital denied eligibility for a lung transplant to a patient because he was being treated with Suboxone, a medication prescribed for his recovery from opioid use disorder (OUD). The settlement agreement requires MGH to revise its non-discrimination policy to include OUD, conduct ADA training for transplant medial staff, and provide monetary relief to the complainant and his mother, who was his transplant support person. (7/30/2020)
Resolution of an allegation that a medical provider in Riverside County, California, failed to provide effective communication to a patient who is deaf, specifically by repeatedly declining to provide the patient auxiliary aids and services other than video remote interpreting (VRI) services even though the medical provider’s VRI failed to work, and required the patient to provide her own interpreter appointments. The agreement includes the designation of an ADA coordinator, written notice to employees and public of the effective communication policy, training staff, maintenance of a complaint log, maintenance of an attendance log for trainings, submission of yearly report to the Department, $5,000 to Complainant for compensatory damages, and $1,000 as a civil penalty. (6/3/2020)
Midwest Plastic Surgery Center –
Resolution of an allegation that a healthcare provider in Hinsdale, Illinois, declined to perform an elective surgery because the patient had HIV. The agreement includes enforcement of the existing non-discrimination policy, notice on the website and in the office of the non-discrimination policy, training of staff, review by the Department of any relevant policies or procedures, maintenance of a file for each potential client that was not accepted as a patient and all those involved in the decision to not accept the individual for at least two years, and $25,000 in compensatory damages for the individual. (5/7/2020)
Resolution of an allegation that Walgreens, a nationwide retail store and pharmacy chain, refused to provide a flu shot to an individual with HIV at a store in Las Vegas, Nevada. The agreement includes a commitment not to discriminate, revisions to its annual training of pharmacists, $24,000 in compensatory damages to the individual, and $15,000 as a civil penalty. (3/27/20)
Resolves compliance review of physical and communication access to hospital facility. The settlement agreement requires the respondent to remove barriers at public and common use areas, provide additional accessible patient rooms, and improve effective communication for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing by adding new policies and procedures. (2/28/20)
Resolution of an allegation that a doctor in Lake Elsinore, California, failed to provide auxiliary aids and services, including a qualified sign language interpreter, to ensure effective communication with an individual who is deaf. The agreement includes adoption of a model assessment of communication needs of patients and companions, training of staff, maintenance of an auxiliary aid and service log, establish and maintain a list of qualified interpreters and establish internal procedures for ordering interpreting services that are consistent with the interpreter or interpreter agencies’ procedures, notice to community of the policy to provide auxiliary aids and services, annual reports to the Department, written notification to the Department of future additional complaints, $5,000 in compensatory damages for the individual, and $1,000 as a civil penalty. (2/11/2020)
Southern California Permanente Medical Group and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals –
Resolution of an allegation that a healthcare provider in Los Angeles, California, failed to provide auxiliary aids and services, including a qualified sign language interpreter, to ensure effective communication with an individual who is deaf. The agreement includes modification of policies to meet the communication needs of patients and companions; designation of one or more Diversity Coordinator/s, who shall provide appropriate assistance regarding immediate access to appropriate auxiliary aids and services necessary for effective communication, including qualified interpreters; training of staff; maintaining an auxiliary aid and service log; implementation of a grievance resolution mechanism for the investigation of complaints regarding effective communication; development and continuance of contracts with at least one interpreter agency that can provide qualified on-site interpretation services and data collection on interpreter response time; notice to the community of the healthcare provider’s policy to provide auxiliary aids and services; annual reports to the Department; written notification to the Department of future complaints; $17,000 in compensatory damages for the individual; and $3,250 as a civil penalty. (2/7/2020)
Resolution of an allegation that a California provider of cosmetic medical procedures refused to provide laser hair removal services to a customer with HIV, including adoption of a non-discrimination policy, training of staff, review by the Department of any relevant policies or procedures, annual reports to the Department, written notification to the Department of future complaints, $12,000 in compensatory damages for the individual, and $6,000 as a civil penalty. (1/28/2020)
Lawrence + Memorial Hospital –
Resolution of an allegation that a hospital in New London, Connecticut, failed to provide auxiliary aids and services, including a qualified language interpreter, to ensure effective communication with an individual who is deaf. The agreement includes adoption of a model assessment of communication needs of patients and companions, designation of an Assistive Device Point Person, training of staff, maintenance of an auxiliary aid and service log, implementation of a grievance resolution mechanism for the investigation of complaints regarding effective communication, notice to the community of the hospital’s policy to provide auxiliary aids and services, annual reports to the Department, written notification to the Department of future complaints, and $8,500 in compensatory damages for the individual. (1/17/2020)
Concentra Health Services, Inc. Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of an allegation that a national provider of urgent care and employee health services failed to provide auxiliary aids and services, including a qualified sign language interpreter, to ensure effective communication with a deaf patient. The agreement includes designation of a national ADA coordinator, provision of auxiliary aids and services free of charge at all patient facing facilities nationwide, adoption of a national effective communication policy, adoption of a model assessment of communication needs of patients and companions, training of staff nationwide, implementation of a grievance resolution mechanism for the investigation of complaints regarding effective communication, notice to the public of the availability of auxiliary aids and services free of charge, and $7,500 in compensatory damages for the individual. (11/19/2019)
William Beaumont Hospital Settlement Agreement –
re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to patients and companions who are deaf to ensure effective communication at 3 hospitals and 31 affiliated health care facilities (11/13/19)
Intermountain Health Services Settlement Agreement –
re: barrier removal at hospital facility (10/28/19)
Resolution of an allegation that a healthcare provider in Norwalk, Connecticut, refused to provide a school physical to a child with developmental disabilities. The agreement includes adoption of a nondiscrimination policy; creation of a patient grievance process; posting of a notice of the nondiscrimination policy in the reception or waiting area and wherever a Patient’s Bill of Rights is required, as well as on the homepage of the healthcare provider’s website; providing training to all employees, staff, members, and other individuals who interact with patients that will include information on effective communication; and $2,500 in compensatory damages for the individual. (10/3/2019)
The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation Settlement Agreement –
re: inpatient rehabilitation facility to remove barriers to access for individuals with mobility impairments (6/28/19)
re: provision of appropriate auxiliary aids and services, including qualified sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf or hard of hearing to ensure effective communication (6/14/19)
Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, Inc. Settlement Agreement –
re: imaging facilities to ensure equal access to services whether by appointment or walk in (4/18/19)
Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital Settlement Agreement –
re: resolves complaints that Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital failed to provide effective communication, including sign language interpreters, to patients who are deaf or hard of hearing. The Settlement Agreement requires the Respondent to modify its policies and procedures to provide effective communication, provide training to staff, and compensate the complainants with money damages. (12/5/18)
Charlotte Radiology Settlement Agreement –
re: to ensure equal access to individuals with mobility impairments (8/13/18)
Washington State Health Care Authority Settlement Agreement –
re: an agreement to greatly improve method of administering sign language interpreters for Medicaid appointments (6/12/18)
ProHealth Physicians Settlement Agreement –
Resolution of an allegation that a medical office leased by a physician group in West Hartford, Connecticut, failed to alter its facilities to be readily accessible to and usable by individuals with disabilities to the maximum extent feasible, including the medical practice’s waiting rooms, exam rooms, entrances, accessible routes, signage, and toilet rooms. The agreement includes physical access alterations and semi-annual reports to the Department. (5/7/2018)
Astria Health Settlement Agreement –
re: provision of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication for patients at medical facilities operated by Astria Health (1/17/18)
Bhupinder S. Mangat, M.D. and Seminole Neurology Associates, P.A. –
re: provision of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication for patients at the professional office of a healthcare provider (12/1/17)
re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf or hard of hearing to ensure effective communication at a hospital (8/22/17)
Aurora Health Care Settlement Agreement –
re: denial of medical treatment to two patients with HIV (7/21/17)
Overlake Medical Center Settlement Agreement --
re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to patients and companions who are deaf to ensure effective communication in a hospital (1/23/2017)
John Dempsey Hospital (part of the University of Connecticut Health Center) Settlement Agreement—
re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to patients who are deaf to ensure effective communication in a hospital that is part of a state university health center (1/3/17)
Arlington County Sheriff Settlement Agreement –
re: effective communication for persons who are deaf or hard of hearing detailed in Sheriff Department’s detention and corrections system (11/16/16)
City of NY and Richmond University Medical Center Statement of Interest (Word) | PDF –
re: failure to provide qualified sign language interpreters and other auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication to mother who is deaf when her son was being treated in the hospital’s emergency room (9/26/16)
Arrowhead Regional Medical Center Settlement Agreement –
re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to patients and companions who are deaf to ensure effective communication in a hospital (7/2016)
re: denial of medical treatment by pain management doctor because the patient has HIV (4/7/16)
Complaint (4/7/16)
Dr. William Sher -- re: doctor’s refusal to perform a biopsy on a patient after learning the patient has HIV (3/9/16)
Grady Memorial Hospital -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf or hard of hearing to ensure effective communication at a hospital (1/12/16)
North Florida OB/GYN Associates, P.A. -- re: gynecologist’s denial of tubal ligation to female patient because of her HIV status in violation of Title III of the ADA (1/7/16)
Promedica Toledo Hospital -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication for patient at a hospital (12/23/15)
Dekalb Regional Crisis Center -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication for companions at a crisis mental health treatment center (8/11/15)
Srinivas Mukkamala, M.D., P.L.C. -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication for patients at the professional office of a healthcare provider (July 14, 2015)
Arshad Pervez, M.D.: re: provision of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication for patients at the professional office of a healthcare provider. (July 14, 2015)
Fairfax Nursing Center, Inc: -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication for companions of patient at skilled nursing facility (July 6, 2015)
Dentex Dental Mobile, Inc. -- re: discriminatory denial of dental care due to HIV and improper referral of a patient with HIV by mobile dental clinic in violation of Title III of the ADA (March 13, 2015)
St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center -- re: the HHS Office for Civil Rights and the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut provision of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication for deaf and hard of hearing patients at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center patients at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center (February 13, 2015)
Genesis Healthcare System -- re: primary care physician's discriminatory denial of care due to HIV and improper referral of patients with HIV in violation of title III of the ADA (January 15, 2015)
Franciscan St. James Health -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication for patients at two hospitals (December 3, 2014)
Swedish Edmonds Hospital -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf or hard of hearing to ensure effective communication at a hospital (October 14, 2014)
Associated Foot & Ankle Centers of Northern Virginia, PC -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication in specialty medical care offices (October 9, 2014)
Dr. Hal W. Brown and Primary Care of the Treasure Coast -- re: adoption of effective communication and non-retaliation policies in family medical practice (August 29, 2014)
Dr. Peter Chang-Sing, M.D., F.A.C.C. -- re: provision of sign language interpreters and other auxiliary aids in a specialist medical practice (July 22, 2014)
Wade W. Han, M. D. and Florida Ear Nose Throat and Facial Plastic Surgery Center -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication in specialty medical care offices (April 18, 2014)
Commonwealth Health & Rehab Center-- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a skilled nursing facility (March 24, 2014)
Rite Aid of Michigan, Inc. -- re: pharmacist’s denial of flu shot to customer because of his HIV status. (February 4, 2014)
Virginia Psychiatric Company, Inc. d/b/a Dominion Hospital – re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to patients and companions who are deaf to ensure effective communication in a psychiatric hospital (September 6, 2013)
The Heart Center of Memphis -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication in specialty medical care offices (June 27, 2013)
Midtown Neurology, P.C. -- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a doctor's office (June 26, 2013)
Burke Health and Rehabilitation Center- re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a skilled nursing facility (May 3, 2013)
Monadnock Community Hospital - re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a hospital (April 5, 2013)
Manassas Health and Rehab Center – re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a skilled nursing facility (April 5, 2013)
Gainesville Health and Rehab Center -re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a skilled nursing facility (April 5, 2013)
Center for Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine, Inc. - re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a rehabilitation center (April 5, 2013)
Northern Ohio Medical Specialists - re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a doctor's office (April 5, 2013)
Glenbeigh - re: settlement regarding exclusion of an individual from an alcohol treatment program because of the side effects of his HIV medication (March 13, 2013)
Woodlawn Family Dentistry - re: dentist office's unequal treatment of people with HIV in the scheduling of future dental appointments (February 12, 2013)
Castlewood Treatment Center - re: eating disorder clinic's refusal to treat a woman for a serious eating disorder because she has HIV (February 6, 2013)
Fayetteville Pain Center - re: unlawful exclusion of a person with HIV from treatment (January 31, 2013)
Northshore University Healthsystems - re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a hospital (June 28, 2012)
Steven Senica, M.D., and Senica Bruneau, Ltd. - re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a doctor's office (June 11, 2012)
Richard Noren, M.D., Henry Kurzydlowski, M.D., and Pain Care Consultant, Inc. - re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a doctor's office (April 3, 2012)
Trinity Regional Medical Center and Trinity Health Systems - re: provision of auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf to ensure effective communication at a hospital (March 29, 2012)
Henry Ford Health System - re: providing appropriate auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf or hard of hearing throughout the hospitals and medical facilities of a regional health care system (February 1, 2012)
Cheshire Medical Center, Keene Health Alliance, and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Clinic D/B/A Dartmouth-Hitchcock Keene - re: consent decree to provide appropriate auxiliary aids and services, including sign language interpreters, to persons who are deaf or hard of hearing at a hospital (October 31, 2011)
https://www.ada.gov/athena_healthcare_sa.html
“The complaints alleged that an Athena facility refused to accept a patient for treatment because that patient was being treated with medication used to treat Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). As a result of these complaints, the United States opened an investigation and initiated a compliance review of all Athena skilled nursing facilities in Massachusetts to determine whether a violation of the ADA existed…”