Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
- Durable Medical Equipment (DME)search for term
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Health-related equipment that is not disposable, such as wheelchairs, walkers, or oxygen concentrators
The Health & Disability Working Group (HDWG) is a prominent organization dedicated to improving health care access and outcomes for marginalized populations, particularly those with disabilities. Established with a mission to address the complex interplay between health and disability, HDWG collaborates with various stakeholders to develop innovative interventions, provide technical assistance, and conduct comprehensive evaluations.
Key Initiatives and Projects
One of HDWG’s notable projects is the Med-HEART (Medical Home-HIV Evaluation & Resource Team) initiative. In partnership with the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, Med-HEART serves as an evaluation and technical assistance center for multiple demonstration sites. This project is part of a broader initiative aimed at building medical homes for populations diagnosed with HIV who are also experiencing homelessness. The primary goal is to design, implement, and assess innovative interventions that enhance timely entry, engagement, and retention in HIV care and supportive services for these vulnerable groups.
Recent Developments in Health and Disability
In 2024, several significant events and policy discussions have taken place concerning health and disability:
- Workshop on Health and Disability among Working-Age Adults: The National Academies’ Committee on Population, in collaboration with the National Institute on Aging, conducted a public workshop focusing on trends and disparities in disability among the U.S. working-age population (ages 25-64). The workshop aimed to identify key research and data priorities related to measuring trends, understanding social and economic factors influencing disabilities, and assessing the implications of COVID-19 and post-COVID developments on public programs.
- Session on Health Equity for Persons with Disabilities at the World Health Summit: In October 2024, global health actors convened to explore concrete actions to make health systems more inclusive of persons with disabilities. The session emphasized the necessity of disability inclusion for advancing health equity by 2030 and beyond, sharing solutions applicable by health ministries to bridge health equity gaps.
- Governor Hochul’s Initiatives in New York: Governor Kathy Hochul announced initiatives to support community growth and inclusivity in New York. Recognizing that only 36.9% of people with disabilities participate in the workforce compared to 73.8% of those without disabilities, the state committed to being an Employment First State. This commitment aims to address employment disparities and reduce the poverty rate among working-age New Yorkers with disabilities.
- 14th Open-Ended Working Group on Ageing: Held in May 2024 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, this session focused on the rights and needs of older persons, including those with disabilities. Discussions centered on strengthening protections and ensuring inclusive support systems for ageing populations.
- International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 2024: Celebrated on December 9, 2024, under the theme “Shaping Inclusive and Sustainable Futures for, with, and by Persons with Disabilities,” the event highlighted the importance of inclusive development and the active participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society.
- Subminimum Wage for Disabled Workers: Advocacy continues against Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act, which permits employers to pay disabled workers less than the minimum wage. Critics argue that this outdated legislation perpetuates poverty and segregation, calling for systemic reforms to create equitable employment opportunities.
- Healthcare Access in Ireland: Ireland faces significant challenges with long wait times for necessary surgeries for individuals with disabilities, particularly those with Spina Bifida. Advocates emphasize the need for timely medical support to ensure that every child can reach their potential.