National Goals on Health Equity’s Recommendations for Disability Competent Healthcare

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) face significant barriers in accessing quality healthcare, which contributes to disparities in health outcomes. In July 2024, a group of researchers convened at the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities National Goals on Health Equity meeting to develop goals related to disability competent healthcare. These goals were reviewed with people with IDD to ensure they were appropriate, comprehensive, and reflective of diverse perspectives. Goals are focused on (1) education and training, (2) funding and reimbursement, (3) data accuracy and integrity, and (4) environment. Each goal includes multiple recommendations to address barriers. Achieving these goals will improve the healthcare experiences, quality of healthcare, health outcomes, and overall well-being for people with IDD.