Recently the WHO Regional Committee for Europe held its 72nd session. One of the subjects under the spotlight was an action plan to achieve the highest attainable standard of health for people with disabilities. This plan was adopted by 53 countries giving it recognition in history books and setting an example to the rest of the world, something which we as an NDIS provider on the Gold Coast, are delighted to see. The bottom line is that governments at the highest political level have committed to removing barriers to healthcare systems and societies for this with disability.
A Framework for Change
The framework is designed to provide support and ensure that no country feels alone in being able to bring a disability-inclusive health system to their citizens. In the guidelines, they will find assistance in providing, protecting and promoting the health of those with disabilities and ensuring that no matter their age, they can be offered well-being.
Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, said, “When everyone can access the health services they need–without barriers–everyone stands to benefit. The framework agreed today will help to shape a health sector where all, including those living with a disability, are treated with dignity and respect and can participate fully,”
Disability-inclusivity is Needed in Healthcare Systems
Records show that across Europe and Central Asia, there are 135 million with a disability, and we need to be aware that at any point in life, almost all of us will experience either a temporary or permanent disability. Disability often brings a need for more healthcare and, simultaneously, creates barriers to this service, causing a failure to meet these needs. When the system fails, the patient sees a decline in health and well-being, which creates a downward spiral of issues. Ultimately barriers create discrimination and increase costs which each country needs to address.
Dr Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, Director of the Division of Country Health Policies and Systems at WHO/Europe, said, “Leaving no one behind means building health systems and societies that work for everyone–including people with disabilities. Today’s ambitious resolution is an important step in the right direction. Building on this achievement, we hope that countries will continue promoting inclusive systems so everyone can live healthy and prosperous lives.”
So How Do They Move Forward?
The framework offers four main principles to help countries overcome the barriers and open up the healthcare system to become fully inclusive in the 53 countries that have signed up and committed to it in Europe.
- Human Rights: people with disabilities should enjoy the same rights on an equal basis as others;
- Universal Design: healthcare services, equipment, products, and environments must be accessible and useable by all people;
- Life-course Approach: health services need to consider the needs of people with disabilities in all stages of life; and
- Inclusive Health Systems: disability inclusion should be integrated across all areas in national health systems.
We look forward to seeing how this progresses.