A study in the Annals of Internal Medicine took a look at 256 medical practices in the U.S., and found 22 percent could not accommodate patients who use wheelchairs. Researchers looked at endocrinology, gynecology, orthopedic, surgery, rheumatology, urology, ophthalmology, otolaryngology and psychiatry practices in four cities. Gynecology ranked as the subspecialty with the highest rate of inaccessibility at 44 percent.
The study showed 18 percent were unable to transfer a patient from a wheelchair to an examination table, and only 9 percent had use of a height-adjustable table or lift for transfer. Nine percent of the practices had inaccessible buildings.
Researchers concluded better awareness of the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements is needed among providers for standards of care.
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