Accessible Healthcare for Everyone

Our Whole Person, Whole Community blog series spotlights the health equity, diversity and inclusion work being done across Adventist HealthCare.

At Adventist HealthCare, we believe that accessible healthcare is not just a goal—it’s a commitment. Every person, regardless of their background, abilities, or circumstances, deserves equitable access to quality care. This principle is at the heart of our mission and is reinforced by federal protections like Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, which prohibits discrimination in healthcare settings.

What Is Section 1557?

Section 1557 is the nondiscrimination provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). It builds upon earlier civil rights laws—including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973—to ensure that individuals are not denied healthcare or treated unfairly based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.

In May 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a final rule updating Section 1557 to strengthen protections and clarify obligations for healthcare providers. These updates emphasize the importance of language access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

Celebrating Disability Independence Day

Each year on July 26, we observe Disability Independence Day, commemorating the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This landmark legislation has transformed the landscape of accessibility in public spaces, including healthcare. At Adventist HealthCare, we honor this day by reaffirming our commitment to inclusive care for people with disabilities, including those who are blind, have low vision, or have cognitive or mobility challenges.

Making Healthcare More Accessible

Accessible healthcare means more than just physical access—it means creating an environment where every patient feels seen, heard, and supported. Adventist HealthCare has implemented a variety of reasonable modifications to ensure that patients with disabilities receive equitable care:

• Support persons are welcome to assist during exams or procedures.
• Alternative communication methods are available, such as reading forms aloud or providing large-print materials.
• Flexible scheduling options, including early appointments, accommodate individual needs.
• Service animals are permitted when necessary.
• Assistance with paperwork is provided for those who have difficulty completing forms.
• Extra time is taken to explain care to patients with cognitive disabilities.
• Accessible facilities include ramps, elevators, bathrooms, and exam rooms designed for ease of use.

These modifications are not just best practices—they are required under Section 1557, which mandates that healthcare organizations make reasonable changes to policies and procedures to ensure equal access.

Why Accessibility Matters

Accessible healthcare is essential for improving health outcomes and building trust within our communities. When patients face barriers—whether physical, linguistic, or cultural—they are less likely to seek care, follow treatment plans, or return for follow-up visits. By removing these barriers, we empower individuals to take charge of their health and well-being.

Moreover, accessibility benefits everyone. Parents with strollers, older adults with mobility challenges, and patients with temporary injuries all benefit from inclusive design and thoughtful accommodations.

Our Ongoing Commitment

Adventist HealthCare is proud to be a leader in promoting accessible healthcare across Maryland and the Washington, D.C. region. We continue to train our staff, upgrade our facilities, and listen to our patients to ensure that every person receives the care they deserve.

As we celebrate Disability Independence Day and reflect on the progress made through laws like the ADA and Section 1557, we also recognize that there is more work to be done. Accessibility is a journey, and we are committed to walking that path with our patients—every step of the way.