ADA National Network Special Session: Has the COVID19 Vaccine Effort Worked for People with Disabilities?

ADA National Network Special Session: Has the COVID19 Vaccine Effort Worked for People with Disabilities?

9th November, 2021

In this presentation, CDC survey data will be reviewed that shows adults with a disability are more likely to report difficulty getting a COVID-19 vaccine compared to adults without a disability. Despite disparities related to COVID-19 vaccine access, adults with a disability are less likely to report vaccine hesitancy compared to adults without a disability. In addition, we will hear real life cases and situations that emphasize the disparity. Finally, resources will be reviewed that are aimed at improving vaccine access for people with disabilities.

Learning objectives:

  • Webinar participants will be able to cite differences in COVID-19 vaccination rates and access for people with disabilities compared to people without disabilities
  • Webinar participants will learn of what difficulties Arizonans with disabilities faced in accessing the vaccine. There will also be a discussion on best practices for making vaccine distribution more accessible for the disability community.

Presenters:

Dr. Blythe Ryerson is the Acting Director of the Division of Human Development and Disability in CDC's National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. The Division's mission is to lead inclusive programs, surveillance, and research to improve the health and development of children and adults with, or at risk for disabilities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Blythe has stayed committed to continuing to build on the Division's foundation of work while exercising agility to improve health equity for people with disabilities during public health emergencies.

J.J. Rico is the Chief Executive Officer at the Arizona Center for Disability Law which is the protection and advocacy agency in Arizona, providing free legal services to people with disabilities. J.J. has dedicated his 20-year legal career representing persons with disabilities specifically focusing on the employment and access provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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