The words “chronic conditions” and “disability” hold significant weight in determining the support individuals receive, impacting their access to funding, treatment, and societal treatment. However, these definitions can often oversimplify complex issues, leading to misleading and discriminatory outcomes. It is essential to reassess these definitions to ensure inclusive support systems that cater to the diverse needs of individuals.
Understanding the Difference
Chronic conditions refer to long-lasting health issues with persistent impacts that may worsen over time. Whilst not immediately life-threatening, they are a leading cause of premature death. On the other hand, disability is a permanent and medically diagnosed impairment that substantially restricts a person’s abilities. These distinctions guide the allocation of resources, with chronic conditions falling under state and territory health systems and disabilities addressed by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
HCPA is responsible for registering an impressive 33.5% of the total active providers in the NDIS today. We offer all-in-one guidance and support to those interested in starting their own NDIS-registered business.
Gaps and Challenges
Despite the existence of various support systems, gaps and overlaps between them often leave individuals facing insurmountable challenges. Eligibility criteria and differing definitions can create barriers, undermining the effectiveness of the support provided. Moreover, the emphasis on deficit models within disability definitions perpetuates harmful stereotypes and low expectations, overshadowing an individual’s capabilities.
Barriers and Overlaps
The physical and social barriers that exclude individuals from society affect those with chronic conditions and disabilities. These labels often coexist, with chronic diseases leading to disabilities and vice versa. Recognising this interconnection is crucial to understanding the extent of impairment in society and fostering a comprehensive approach to support.
Reframing Definitions
A paradigm shift is needed to move away from a deficit-based understanding of disability and embrace a more holistic perspective. Newer insights emphasise the interaction between individuals and their environments and prioritise pursuing human rights. By challenging the dichotomy between chronic conditions and disabilities, we can create a society that supports and engages all members, regardless of labels. At HCPA, we recognise that every individual and situation is unique. We take a personalised approach to provide tailored solutions that meet your needs.
Recognising Impairment
If we broaden our perspective beyond traditional disability labels, a significant portion of the population experiences impairments rarely recognised. Conditions such as deafness, visual decline, allergies, and chronic pain affect most Australians. Neglecting this reality perpetuates the marginalisation of disability, hindering efforts to redesign support systems to be inclusive and equitable.
Even the notion of permanence, a tangible aspect of these definitions, needs more consistency. Eligibility criteria and age restrictions further complicate matters. Many individuals over 65 with disabilities face additional challenges navigating the aged care system. Such discrepancies highlight the need for a comprehensive approach that respects the dignity and rights of all individuals, irrespective of age. To ensure dignified and personally meaningful lives for all, our understanding of disability and chronic conditions must evolve. Harmonising definitions, streamlining support systems, and embracing universal design principles are crucial steps toward inclusivity. Simultaneously, it is essential to acknowledge each person’s unique context, nature and needs to provide tailored support.
HCPA promotes inclusive support systems and empowers individuals with chronic conditions and disabilities. By reevaluating these definitions and promoting inclusive support systems, we can foster a society that values and accommodates all its members’ diverse needs and experiences. Empowering individuals and reframing the conversation around disability and chronic conditions will pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive future.
HCPA is an all-in-one solution for NDIS providers, supporting them with registration, growth and consulting. We are here to ensure your business thrives within the NDIS framework; contact us now here for more information.
SOURCES | The Conversation ‘When is a condition ‘chronic’ and when is it s ‘disability’? The definition can determine the support you get’ |
