WASHINGTON, D.C. (September 7, 2021)—The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) today announced a package of free resources that provide guidance on best practices to improve access and experiences for visually impaired individuals in healthcare settings, including patients, caregivers, and visitors.
The resources, which were created after a thorough investigation by AFB’s Research team, include a set of handouts, a pair of training videos, and a pre- and post-test. The five handouts contain practical suggestions covering a general overview for healthcare workers categorized by function area: ancillary and support, food services, guest services, and registration-admissions. The two videos are approximately 20 minutes long and have short activities embedded within them. The pre-test and post-tests are 10 multiple-choice questions each, intended to be taken before and after healthcare staff view the videos.
The Free Resources
Handouts:
General Overview for Healthcare Workers | Download the PDF
Suggestions for Registration Staff | Download the PDF
Suggestions for Guest Services Staff | Download the PDF
Guidelines for Food Service Staff | Download the PDF
Guidelines for Ancillary and Support Staff | Download the PDF
Training Videos:
Supporting Individuals with Visual Impairments in the Healthcare Setting, Part One
Supporting Individuals with Visual Impairments in the Healthcare Setting, Part Two
Pre- and Post-Tests:
Take the pre-test
Take the post-test
Production of the training materials was made possible through a generous grant from the James H. and Alice Teubert Charitable Trust, and support from Cabell Huntington Hospital Foundation.
To access the free resources and learn more about the research criteria, please visit AFB.org/healthcare.
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About the American Foundation for the Blind
Founded in 1921, the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) is a national nonprofit that creates a world of no limits for people who are blind or visually impaired. AFB mobilizes leaders, advances understanding, and champions impactful policies and practices using research and data. AFB is proud to steward the Helen Keller Archive, maintain and expand the digital collection, and honor the more than 40 years that Helen Keller worked tirelessly with AFB. Visit: www.afb.org
