3.2.1.1 The Americans with Disabilities Act: The Americans with Disabilities Act (https: www.ada.gov/) protects qualified individuals with disabilities from discrimination on the basis of disability in services, programs, and activities. Accessibility and inclusion of diverse populations are essential to reduce health disparities for vulnerable populations. Contractors must comply with all ADA requirements in their work to ensure the needs of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable populations are met. This includes, but is not limited to: ● facilities and any venues used for meetings/conferences are accessible. ● requested accommodations are provided in a timely manner; and ● written and printed materials developed in accessible formats (easy to read, large print, etc.), or providing access to alternative formats. For contracts which include direct patient care or service delivery through a program, the ADA requires entities provide full and equal access for people with disabilities. This includes, but is not limited to: ● reasonable modifications of policies, practices, and procedures. ● effective communication; and ● accessible facilities. 3.2.1.2 Design a new program or add to an existing program within the organization. Program design shall include, but is not limited to, the development of protocols and tools for: A. Laboratory testing as clinically indicated - full CBC and hemoglobin electrophoresis to detect sickle cell trait or hemoglobinopathy trait-with a focus on thalassemia trait . (Further genetic testing may be needed for some cases.) B. Notification of Results (both to the client and, if identified, a primary care provider.) C. Genetic counseling and education for each individual client in order to assure that well informed decisions are made regarding health and reproductive implications of positive results. D. Medical records documentation, consistent with accepted medical standards of care. E. Educational materials on sickle cell trait and hemoglobinopathy (including thalassemia) trait, its inheritance pattern, and potential health implications and reproductive implications/options. F. Client evaluation of program and response to receiving results and the changes if any that will come from the results and knowledge. G. Tracking of cases, to determine outcomes. H. Sharing of protocols and referral processes, including protocols for when follow-up needs to be held and tracking service coordination. I. Sharing and updating of resources with MDH and state 211 site.
