Health Access for Independent Living (HAIL) Fact Sheet: Working with Your Health Care Provider

Attitudinal Barriers

People with disabilities need to be able to recognize health care providers’ unintentional yet unproductive attitudes towards them. 

• Educate your health care provider about your disability and your overall health. Be respectful yet firm in explaining what you know about your own body.

• Expect respect. If the health care provider is patronizing or disrespectful, address the issue and point out that you would like to be treated just like any other adult patient.

• Thank your doctor and show appreciation if he or she treats you well. Refer others to that doctor.

• Choose safety if you feel threatened, frightened, or coerced in any way. If you don’t feel safe, it may be time to change your provider.

• Explore other providers in your area if you aren’t satisfied. Talk with friends, support groups or your local center for independent living to find a doctor who has experience treating people with disabilities.