Health Access for Independent Living (HAIL): a Pilot Study Examining a Health Management Program for Adults with...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Disability Studies
• Health Promotion

Background:

• Individuals with physical disabilities face significant challenges in accessing healthcare and managing secondary health conditions.
• Centers for Independent Living (CIL) are community-based organizations uniquely positioned to support health promotion for people with disabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and pilot an 8-week program for CIL staff to facilitate secondary health condition management in adults with physical disabilities.
• To empower CIL staff in guiding consumers through setting and achieving SMART health goals.

Main Methods:

• The Health Access for Independent Living (HAIL) program was developed in consultation with CILs.
• HAIL was pilot-tested with CIL staff and consumers with physical disabilities in Kansas and Pennsylvania.
• The program was designed to integrate seamlessly into existing CIL service delivery.

Main Results:

• 82.3% of participants achieved their health goals at the expected level.
• The HAIL program led to a reduction in perceived barriers to health management.
• The program provided a structured approach for CIL staff to support consumers.

Conclusions:

• The HAIL program offers a viable, structured approach for CILs to enhance health management support for individuals with physical disabilities.
• The program's design facilitated integration into CIL services, demonstrating practical applicability.
• Successful health goal attainment and reduced barriers highlight the program's effectiveness.