Identifying state resources and support programs on e-government websites for persons with intellectual and...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Disability Studies
• Information Science

Background:

• Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families require accessible online resources.
• Existing e-government websites offer a starting point for identifying support services.
• A comprehensive evaluation of these online resources is needed to identify gaps and areas for improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and evaluate nationwide internet-based resources and programs for individuals and families with I/DD.
• To focus specifically on resources for intellectual disability.
• To assess the accessibility and information quality of state-specific I/DD resources linked from e-government sites.

Main Methods:

• A descriptive, cross-sectional study design was employed.
• Information was gathered from e-government websites across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
• Ease of access and available information for I/DD resources were systematically documented.

Main Results:

• Numerous online resources and programs supporting individuals with I/DD were identified.
• Significant disparities in resource availability and accessibility were observed across states.
• Specific unique programs were highlighted, but overall website quality and information varied.
• Ease of access to information was inconsistent, indicating areas for improvement.

Conclusions:

• The current landscape of online I/DD resources reveals notable disparities and areas needing enhancement.
• Improved health and support services are crucial to meet the increasing needs of the I/DD population.
• Further development and standardization of online resources are recommended to ensure equitable access to information and support.