Rural Health Network Development Planning Grant Program - Disability Access to a System of Health

OMB Number: 4040-0019 Expiration Date: 02/28/2025 Project Abstract Summary This Project Abstract Summary form must be submitted or the application will be considered incomplete. Ensure the Project Abstract field succinctly describes the project in plain language that the public can understand and use without the full proposal. Use 4,000 characters or less. Do not include personally identifiable, sensitive or proprietary information. Refer to Agency instructions for any additional Project Abstract field requirements. If the application is funded, your project abstract information (as submitted) will be made available to public websites and/or databases including USAspending.gov. Funding Opportunity Number HRSA - 25 - 037 Assistance Listing Number(s): Applicant Name Univeristy of Kentucky Research Foundation Descriptive Title of Applicant''s Project Disability Access to a System of Health (DASH) Project Abstract There is an overwhelming need for increased training for individuals within the healthcare system when treating and interacting with individuals with mental and physical disabilities. The overall disability rate in Kentucky is 34%, which is higher than the national average of 28.7%. The rate increases in the southeastern Appalachian region of Kentucky, increasing to an average of 52%. Disability-related healthcare accounts for 41% of Kentucky''s annual healthcare spending. Individuals with disabilities are three times more likely to have heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and high blood pressure, often have lower rates of screenings, and encounter a lack of accessible medical equipment in most clinics. Limited resources, lack of appropriate equipment, building inaccessibility, and a general lack of understanding of the needs of persons with disabilities are especially barriers in rural areas (Dassah, Aldersey, McColl, & Davison, 2018; Iezzoni, Killeen, & O''Day, 2006; Kroll, Jones, Kehn, & Neri, 2006). A primary barrier to preventative health care for individuals with disabilities in rural communities is the distance to knowledgeable healthcare providers willing to work with individuals with complex needs. Healthcare providers face the significant challenge of managing various disability types. Yet, many of these providers and their staff lack formal training to engage with individuals who have diverse disabilities effectively. In rural Appalachian areas of Eastern Kentucky, where disabilities are more prevalent, the gaps in access underscore the critical need for comprehensive and current training for both providers and front line staff serving this distinct population. Unfortunately, no standardized training program equips them with the necessary skills and knowledge to adequately support these individuals. The purpose of this planning grant will be to establish a rural healthcare network with a mandate to provide the collaboration needed to expand access to care for persons with disabilities. This Community Advisory Board (CAB) will establish network connections that can provide expert knowledge and experiences in designing an education program that will train rural providers and employees to engage individuals with disabilities. Knowledge about effectively working with persons with disabilities is essential at the individual provider level but becomes crucial at the network level as patients move through the healthcare networks. Breakdowns in knowledge at any level within the network will significantly impact the overall efficiency and efficacy of the care being provided; this will diminish the overall health outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Network-level disability education/training is needed to coordinate services, improve access to quality basic healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, and improve associated health outcomes.