Equity of Access to Health Care for People with Learning Disabilities

People with learning disabilities face more challenges than the general population in maintaining an acceptable level of health, and more of their health care needs remain unmet. A range of barriers to ‘equity of access’ have been identified, including a lack of knowledge of people with learning disabilities and their health needs, poor communication and negative stereotypes. This article undertakes an analysis of the concept of ‘equity of access’ to health care using Walker and Avant’s framework. The purpose is to increase clarity of the concept in relation to people with learning disabilities. It is proposed that ‘equity of access’ is related to benefiting from as well as entering a service in which you have confidence. Accessibility also refers not only to distance but also to time and ethos. The implications for practice of the provision of an equitable health service to people with learning disabilities are considered.