Cancer Program News
In the United States, people living with disability often experience significant health disparities. According to the CDC, one in five Marylanders experience at least one type of disability. The CDC also reports that people with disabilities typically have lower cancer screening rates than people without disabilities due to trouble accessing health care. As a result, it is more likely that their cancer will be diagnosed at a later stage, when it is more difficult and costly to treat. In 2017, the Maryland Department of Health’s Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Control, developed the Disability Health Inclusion Program (DHIP). DHIP along with partners such the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD), and the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) are providing training and technical assistance opportunities for public health staff, designed to promote inclusion and engagement of people with disabilities in all local health department activities and services provided. DHIP envisions all citizens in Maryland having equal access to opportunities and resources to reduce disparities and lead healthy lives. Including people with disabilities in public health activities is also a goal established by Healthy People 2020. To help local health departments meet this goal, NACCHO has established a checklist to utilize in the program planning and implementation process:
As a cancer screening program, contemplate how you may engage people living with a disability who currently utilize or need to utilize your screening services. Additionally, consider accessibility needs and appropriate ways to interact. Below are links to resources that may help your program:
For additional information or to receive DHIP’s newsletter, contact Erin Ashinghurst, DHIP Administrator at erin.ashinghurst@maryland.gov |