Resource Link

https://odpc.ucsf.edu/sites/odpc.ucsf.edu/files/pdf_docs/Video%20Script%20for%20Self-Advocates.pdf

Resource Description

Introduction: This document is a video script about Supported Health Care Decision-Making created by the Office of Developmental Primary Care at the University of California, San Francisco. The script is meant for self-advocates (people with disabilities who speak up for themselves). It explains how people with disabilities can get support when making healthcare decisions while still keeping control over their choices.

Resource Summary

Content Summary: Going to the doctor can be hard for people with disabilities. Medical offices might be cluttered and hard to move around in. Exam tables and scales might be tough to use. Doctors might be busy or not know how to talk with you in the way you understand best. Everyone needs help sometimes when they see a doctor or make health choices. If you have a disability, you might get help from family, friends, or people who work with you. Right now, there are different ways to get help with health choices. A Power of Attorney lets someone else make choices if you can't say what you want. A conservator or guardian can make choices for you by law, even if you don't like the choices they make. Supported Decision-Making is a new way of thinking that helps you get the support you need while staying in charge of your life. The helpers you pick can explain treatment choices, talk with your doctor, teach you about your medicine, or help you move during an exam. Your helpers can learn about your health history and what you like by filling out a Health Passport with you. They can also help you write down your worries and questions for your doctor. Supported Health Care Decision-Making Agreements are new. These forms will let you name one or more trusted helpers. They can help you understand your choices, but you still get to decide what treatments you want. You don't have to use these forms if you don't want to. They just help doctors know who your helpers are. If you don't want someone to be your helper anymore, you can change the form or cancel it any time. The script tells viewers where to find a video that explains more about Supported Health Care Decision-Making. It also shares links to more information about model laws and a questions and answers guide from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network. The document ends with credits for the people who made the video and the actors who played roles in it.