Healthcare Procedures for Adults with I/DD

Adults with chronic childhood conditions, particularly intellectual and developmental disabilities, experience significant health disparities and frequently have unmet healthcare needs. For children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, disparities in healthcare quality and health outcomes are a significant concern. They are less likely than the general population to receive preventive health screenings and procedures, such as colonoscopies and mammograms. Health disparities experienced by individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) are worsened for those that experience needle-related anxiety and have significant fear of medical procedures. Many will not engage with the healthcare system due to anxiety around healthcare procedures that can evoke poor behaviors and running away, making it challenging for professionals to provide necessary care. Training curricula for healthcare professionals should include more strategies for promoting cooperative behavior. Limited healthcare provider knowledge on the healthcare needs and characteristics of I/DD and rigid healthcare environments and processes contribute to health disparities among people with I/DD. Primary care providers play a crucial role in providing accessible healthcare to patients with I/DD that is patient-centered, developmentally appropriate, and safe in delivery.