"Please Look Beyond My Disability"

In this chapter, we will explore a case involving patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). The case focuses on topics related to disability including defining disability, characterizing some aspects of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and noting how environment and disability interact. There is also consideration of issues related to treating physician-patients and of physicians with disability practicing medicine. At the conclusion of the case, learners will be able to describe the healthcare system as it relates to disability and appreciate that people with disability should not be identified by their limitations. Learners will also be able to recognize skills needed to provide high-quality care for people with disability and how those skills apply to all patients. Finally, they will be able to analyze the role of the ADA and the issues of access to care for people with disability.