Health Care Provision and People with Learning Disabilities (PDF)

Choice and equity of access to primary and secondary health care
services is a priority within all aspects of the NHS, however it
must be recognised that for some people access to health care can
pose difficulties. For various reasons people with learning
disabilities can present a range of challenges for the people
around them, during times of ill health any difficulties will
become ever more apparent. For the health professional working in
mainstream primary and secondary care settings, these challenges
can be difficult to overcome when attempting to identify health
needs and deliver holistic care that is responsive to their
individual needs.

Health Care Provision and People with Learning Disabilities - A
Guide for Health Professionals provides clear information that will
assist mainstream health care providers in gaining greater
understanding of people with learning disabilities and managing
their health needs.

Each chapter gives the reader information and guidance on
dealing with a variety of situations found in health care settings.
Examples of good practice are explained using case examples and
experiences of people with learning disabilities and their carers.
The book describes what is expected from the various health care
teams and offers solutions to potential challenges and barriers
they may be faced with. It includes information regarding
specialist support services that can offer assistance to the
individual and to the mainstream staff teams, while ideas are also
offered on how to present information in a format people who have
communication difficulties can understand.

The evidence base for Health Care Provision and People with
Learning Disabilities - A Guide for Health Professionals has been
drawn from extensive research, personal experience, policy
guidance, as well as some of the current legislation that is
applicable to this diverse group of people. The information shared
will prove useful for those working in health settings as well as
those undertaking studies in health care.