This complimentary article from Pharmacy Technician's Letter is being provided to readers of Pharmacist's Letter, who may find its content relevant to their practice.
Over 25% of adults in the US have a disability...such as a serious difficulty with mobility, thinking, hearing, or vision.
Use these tips to provide compassionate and respectful care...and help patients living with a disability overcome obstacles.
Speak directly to the patient...even if a caregiver is present. Talk and act as you usually would.
Use "person-first" language that emphasizes the patient...NOT the disability. For example, say "person who is blind" versus "blind person"...or "uses a wheelchair" versus "wheelchair-bound."
Steer clear of other outdated or offensive terms. For example, swap "handicapped" with "accessible."
Document patient preferences...for communication, etc.
For instance, patients who are hard of hearing may request using pictograms...to help get the message across visually.
Those with vision problems may want larger-font Rx labels...or for you to read them documents, such as vaccine consent forms.
Avoid making assumptions...or showing sympathy. For example, don't assume a person with a physical disability has an intellectual disability...or apologize for a patient's condition.
Always ask BEFORE giving assistance. The patient may be capable of performing a task on their own...and may not need or want help.
Recognize barriers...and take steps to increase accessibility.
For instance, adjust spacing of floor displays, pharmacy line dividers, and waiting signs...so patients using a walker or wheelchair can maneuver around them safely.
Promote tools or services...to help meet patient needs.
For example, Rx delivery may be beneficial for patients who have difficulty getting to the pharmacy...or non-child-resistant caps for those with poor hand strength, such as due to Parkinson's disease or stroke.
Unpack our resource, Overcoming Patient Communication Challenges...for more solutions.
- https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/hcp.html (5-24-22)
- https://www.mountsinai.org/about/odi/disabilities/physical-sensory-disabilities (5-24-22)
- https://odr.dc.gov/page/people-first-language (5-24-22)
Susan Kwon May 11, 2025
Article was good.
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