Disparities in patient-physician communication for persons with a disability from the 2006 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS)

This study revealed that persons with disabilities are at increased risk of experiencing ineffective patient-physician communication, compromising current health status and increasing the possibility of secondary health conditions.

Abstract

This study revealed that persons with disabilities are at increased risk of experiencing ineffective patient-physician communication, compromising current health status and increasing the possibility of secondary health conditions. Several suggestions were made with regard to incorporation of "disability literacy" mechanisms such as physician training, health facility environmental assessment, and use of technologies such as telehealth and e-health. Further research in partnership with the disability community is needed to determine the effectiveness of these methods in improving patient-physician communication.