Improving Healthcare Access for People with Disabilities in Hauts-de-France
The Regional Health Agency (ARS) Hauts-de-France has launched a roadmap focused on reducing health inequalities and ensuring inclusive healthcare for people with disabilities. This initiative aims to empower individuals to understand their rights, navigate the healthcare system, and receive quality care both in hospitals and within the community.
Key components of the roadmap include:
* disability Advisors in Hospitals: By 2028, every hospital in the region will have dedicated advisors to adapt care pathways to individual needs, mediate between patients and staff, and raise awareness of disability-specific care requirements. Currently available in 40% of establishments, these advisors are crucial for improving the hospital experience.
* Handigynéco – Improved Gynecological Care: This program addresses barriers to gynecological care for women with disabilities by providing trained midwives who offer longer, adapted consultations in accessible settings. Handigynéco also includes education sessions on sexual health and awareness of gender-based violence, alongside staff training.
* Handibloc – Streamlined Surgical Support: Recognizing the stress associated with surgery for people with disabilities, Handibloc anticipates and addresses specific needs like the need for general anesthesia or a companion. This system coordinates multiple interventions under a single anesthesia, minimizing hospital visits and maximizing care efficiency.
Building on Existing Successes:
This roadmap expands upon existing ARS initiatives, including:
* HandiConsult’: Helping over 5,000 people with severe disabilities better understand their medical consultations.
* Handident: Providing a specialized oral and dental care pathway, facilitating 20,000 treatments in the region.
* Sports and Health Centers: Welcoming over 2,000 people with disabilities annually, offering inclusive health and wellness programs.
According to Hugo Gilardi, General Director of ARS Hauts-de-France, the goal is simple: “Access to health must become a reality for every person living with a disability.” This roadmap, developed in collaboration with stakeholders, demonstrates a commitment to achieving this goal by reducing inequalities, guaranteeing access to care, and improving the overall health and well-being of people with disabilities in the region.
[Link to the full roadmap, including a simplified (FALC) version]
