Effective Date: 01/01/2024
Mercy Health Services (MHS) is committed to ensuring full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing accessible and inclusive healthcare services to all individuals. Our ADA Compliance Policy outlines our dedication to creating an environment where everyone, regardless of disability, can access our services and facilities with ease and dignity.
1. Purpose The purpose of this ADA Compliance Policy is to ensure that all services, facilities, and communications at MHS are accessible to individuals with disabilities, in accordance with ADA standards.
2. Scope This policy applies to all MHS employees, contractors, and affiliates and covers all aspects of service delivery, including physical facilities, digital communications, and service interactions.
3. Definitions
- Disability: A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
- Reasonable Accommodation: Modifications or adjustments to a job, work environment, or the way things are usually done that enable an individual with a disability to have an equal opportunity.
4. Accessible Facilities
- Physical Accessibility: MHS ensures that all facilities are fully accessible, including entrances, restrooms, patient rooms, and common areas. This includes ramps, elevators, wide doorways, and accessible parking spaces.
- Signage and Wayfinding: Clear and accessible signage is provided throughout our facilities to assist individuals with disabilities in navigating our premises.
5. Inclusive Services
- Communication Accommodations: MHS provides necessary accommodations such as sign language interpreters, assistive listening devices, and written materials in alternative formats (e.g., Braille, large print) to ensure effective communication with individuals with disabilities.
- Service Animals: Individuals with disabilities are allowed to bring their service animals into all areas of our facilities where the public is normally allowed to go.
6. Digital Accessibility
- Website Accessibility: Our website is designed to be accessible to individuals with disabilities. We follow Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to ensure our digital content is usable by all.
- Accessible Communication: Digital communications, including emails and online resources, are formatted to be accessible to individuals with disabilities.
7. Staff Training
- Ongoing Training Programs: All MHS employees receive training on ADA requirements and best practices for interacting with individuals with disabilities. This training is provided upon hire and annually thereafter.
- Awareness and Sensitivity: Training programs emphasize the importance of sensitivity and awareness in providing services to individuals with disabilities.
8. Complaint Resolution
- Reporting Concerns: Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against or denied access to services due to a disability can file a complaint with MHS.
- Resolution Process: MHS investigates all complaints promptly and thoroughly, taking appropriate corrective action to resolve any issues and prevent future occurrences.
9. Monitoring and Compliance
- Regular Audits: MHS conducts regular audits of facilities, services, and digital platforms to ensure ongoing compliance with ADA standards.
- Continuous Improvement: Feedback from patients and staff is used to continuously improve accessibility and inclusivity at MHS.
10. Contact Information For questions, concerns, or requests related to ADA compliance, please contact us at:
Mercy Health Services: info@mercymhcs.com
By using our services, you agree to the terms of this ADA Compliance Policy. Thank you for trusting Mercy Health Services to provide inclusive and accessible healthcare