While the COVID-19 virus continues to spread throughout the state, Californians with disabilities have even more reason to worry than those without. As the number of cases rises, so to does demand for medical resources. Unless supply keeps up, healthcare providers will likely turn to “rationing” resources, as has already taken place in other parts of the world. Such a top-down policy lends itself to disproportionately affecting those with disabilities.
In anticipation of the aforementioned scenario, Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) and Disability Rights California (DRC) have prepared a Know Your Disability Healthcare Rights sheet to empower disabled people and their loved ones if and when they go to the hospital. The sheet lists your rights as well as DRC’s toll-free number should you face any problems receiving the healthcare you are entitled to during the current crisis.
The Know Your Disability Healthcare Rights sheet can be printed at home or downloaded onto your phone. It is currently available in English-Spanish and English-Chinese versions with English-Vietnamese, English-Tagalog, and English-Korean on the horizon. It is imperative that you take the sheet with you when you seek medical so that you Know Your Disability Healthcare Rights!
Download or print your sheet here: Know Your Disability Healthcare Rights.
Santaella Legal Group, APC serves the San Ramon, Danville, Dublin and San Francisco bay area and can assist with any special needs or disability legal issues.