STUDENTS WITH MEDICAL CONDITIONS

GENERAL INFORMATION

ATTITUDES

It is important to understand that not every disability presents itself in an obvious way.  One should not assume that a condition is not serious because a person appears unaffected.  There is also a danger in projecting one's own experiences onto others.  It can be difficult to appreciate the severity of a medical disability, particularly when the condition is invisible.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS

There are a number of medical conditions that can cause disability for a student at a university.  Some of the most common are: arthritis, diabetes mellitus, epilepsy, narcolepsy, chronic pain, AIDS, Crohn’s Disease, multiple sclerosis, cancer, traumatic brain injury, mental illness, muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, and fibromyalgia.

There are other more temporary disabilities such as burns or injured limbs, which can still profoundly affect a student’s life personally, socially, and academically.

ASSOCIATED PROBLEMS

In most cases it is not the condition itself that interferes with a student’s interactions, but the effects of that condition.  A student can become easily fatigued or especially sensitive to stress, require medication, or experience a mobility or dexterity impairment.

FATIGUE

A medical disability and its effects can take a physical toll on a student. Many students with a medical disability need periodic rest periods throughout the day and often need more sleep than others at night.

STRESS

Unexpected or unusual conditions that disrupt routine and cause stress can be especially hard to deal with for a student with a medical disability.  A regular and balanced routine of eating, sleeping, and exercise may be crucial to that student’s well being.

Emotional balance is also essential.  Undue emotional or academic stress can cause breakdowns, memory loss, and a worsening of the condition.

MEDICATION

The medication used to control various medical conditions can have other effects as well, including increased fatigue, lack of sleep, difficulties concentrating or remembering, and a slowing down of reactions.  Medication must usually be administered at particular intervals requiring a strict routine of eating and sleeping.

MOBILITY

Mobility and dexterity impairment are the results of many medical conditions, including chronic pain, arthritis and multiple sclerosis.  Some students may have difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or remaining in one position for long periods of time.  Writing and other fine motor activities can also be affected. If a student’s mobility problem is very severe, he/she may need to use a wheelchair.

OFFICE OF DISABILITY SERVICES

The coordinator of Disability Services is available to discuss concerns of any student.  The coordinator can also ensure that the necessary accommodations and resources are provided.  These include:

• Securing specialized equipment, i.e. tape recorders, computer software packages, etc.
• Arranging for testing and academic accommodation, i.e. extra time for exams, permission to tape lectures, private exam rooms, etc.
• Arranging note-takers
• Providing personal support and advice
• Liaison with faculty and academic counselors

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE

Student Health Service is a source of support for students with medical disabilities.  It provides both short-term and continuing care.  Care providers are on duty from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays.   It is located on second floor in West Hall, Box 510.   Telephone: (605) 688-4157.

ACADEMIC CONSIDERATIONS

A student with a medical disability that requires special consideration should meet with instructors before the semester begins.  The two should discuss how the disability will affect the students’ participation in the course and what accommodations will be required.

SUGGESTIONS FOR LECTURERS AND LAB INSTRUCTORS

• A student may require a note-taker or need to tape lectures, especially if dexterity or ability to concentrate is affected.
• A student may miss some class time.  Absence from class is often unavoidable for students with medical disabilities.  The instructor’s cooperation in keeping the student up to date on course material may be necessary.  If extended absence is a possibility, the student and instructor should discuss the implications and possible solutions.                                                                                                                                        

SUGGESTIONS FOR EXAMS AND ASSIGNMENTS

• Many students with medical disabilities have limitations on the time they can spend working each day.  They may require extensions on their assignments to compensate for this.  Extra time may also be needed on exams.