Accreditation practice pointer: patients with disabilities or impairment can access our services

C2.3 A Our patients with disabilities or impairment can access our services.

RACGP Standards for general practice

General practices must comply with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (amended 2018). It is important that patients with a disability or impairment can access the practice with dignity.

This can be achieved by considering the physical infrastructure needed for access and parking, and welcoming assistance animals.

General practice should have a process for supporting patients with disabilities or impairment to access the services provided.

Practices might also:

• use pictures on signs to help patients with intellectual disability or visual impairment

• provide a transport service to help patients who cannot otherwise get to the practice

• endeavour to make telehealth accessible to people with disability and impairment

• have software and technology available to assist patients with disability and impairment

• offer alternatives to practice visits, such as home visits and/or telehealth consultations, for patients who might not be physically able to attend the practice.