6 Ways for Hospitals to Celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Background of National Disability Employment Awareness Month

In 1945, U.S. Congress passed a law establishing the first week of October as "National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week." By 1962, this was expanded to include all disabilities. In 1988, the observance was extended to the entire month, renaming it National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Ways Hospitals and Nurses Can Observe NDEAM

Hospitals and nurses have numerous ways to observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Recommendations from the U.S. Department of Labor include setting up displays, training leadership teams, creating employee resource groups, educating staff, using social media to highlight NDEAM, and participating in Disability Mentoring Day.

Setting Up Displays

Hospitals can set up informative displays in staff areas, celebrating NDEAM and the hospital's commitment to inclusivity. These displays might include motivational messages and posters in various languages, raising awareness of the importance of disability inclusion in the workplace.

Training Leaders

Leadership plays a key role in fostering an inclusive work environment. During NDEAM, hospitals can offer training sessions for administrative teams to ensure they understand the importance of supporting a diverse workforce, especially for employees with disabilities.

Create Employee Resource Groups

Employee resource groups are valuable networks for staff with shared backgrounds or interests. Hospitals can establish dedicated resource groups for employees with disabilities, providing opportunities for networking, mutual support, and resource sharing.

Educate Staff

Training all hospital staff on disability awareness and inclusion is a vital step. Many local organizations, such as The National Organization on Disability (NOD), offer tailored disability training programs that can help healthcare providers understand the nuances of working with employees and patients with disabilities.

Highlight NDEAM on Social Media

Social media is an effective tool for raising awareness about NDEAM. Hospitals can use the hashtag #NDEAM on platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to showcase their support for disability inclusion, celebrate accomplishments, and share initiatives that promote equal opportunity for employees with disabilities.

Engage in Disability Mentoring Day

Disability Mentoring Day provides an excellent opportunity for hospitals to participate in NDEAM. On the third Wednesday of October, hospitals can offer mentorship opportunities for young individuals with disabilities, allowing them to job shadow professionals and gain valuable insights into potential career paths. The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) offers resources to help hospitals and organizations coordinate Disability Mentoring Day events.

Final Thoughts on National Disability Employment Awareness Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month is an important occasion for hospitals and nurses to advocate for employees with disabilities and raise awareness about their contributions. While the nursing field has made progress in embracing diverse backgrounds, there is still work to be done to improve job opportunities and workplace inclusivity for individuals with disabilities. Embracing diversity strengthens healthcare organizations and enriches patient care, especially for those with disabilities, by providing representation in the workforce.

For more information about promoting diversity and inclusion in healthcare, visit GoodWork.