Most cited: Long term care providers in Virginia are the providers most investigated and subject to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) enforcement actions for violations of the effective communication requirements under the ADA.

• Attend the June 6 informational meeting hosted by the US Attorney’s Office on steps you can take to comply with these ADA requirements.

The ADA applies to all types of private and state and local government healthcare providers, including skilled nursing providers among the covered provider types.

• The ADA applies to all services that covered entities provide, including in-person medical services, telehealth appointments, and websites.
• Healthcare providers are required to ensure that communication with people with disabilities is as effective as communication with people without disabilities.

Learn more:

• Read the Dear Colleagues Letter US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, which cites common issues identified during investigations as well as factors that seem to increase the likelihood that providers will fail to meet the ADA’s requirements for individuals with communication disabilities.
• Review the Hancock Daniel client advisory, Equitable Etiquette: A Reminder That Effective Communication Is Required by the Americans with Disabilities Act for Healthcare Providers.