Public Accommodations for People with Diabetes - Diabetes Advocacy

Many people with diabetes have to carry along their supplies wherever they go. These supplies may include blood sugar monitors, lancets, syringes, and more. Concerns about carrying these devices may be especially strong when diabetics attempt to fly or go to a public arena, such as a theater or sporting stadium - especially when they have to go through a metal detector.

However, thanks to public advocacy, individuals with diabetes have the "right to participate fully in our society without sacrificing their medical safety or facing discrimination because of misunderstandings, fears, and stereotypes about diabetes," according to the American Diabetes Association. Therefore, thanks to federal laws, public places and programs are not allowed to discriminate against people with diabetes, including private companies and non-profit organizations.

What does it mean to not discriminate against someone with diabetes?

When entities are prohibited from discriminating against people with diabetes, they are, essentially, required to provide the same services to people with diabetes as to people without diabetes. Diabetics should not be screened out for any reason because of the diabetes. Also, many public and private organizations will provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with diabetes.

For example, a diabetic may need any of the following accommodations, according to the American Diabetes Association:

• The diabetic may need permission to bring along diabetes care supplies, including insulin syringes, blood glucose test strips, lancets, and insulin. This may require them to bring these items through security checkpoints at airports, courthouses, and elsewhere.

• Diabetics should be able to check their blood glucose levels, eat a snack, take their medication, and use the restroom as needed, even if it means leaving the work post for a few moments to do so.

• Diabetics should be able to reschedule an examination if their blood glucose levels are too high or too low.

• Children with diabetes should also receive assistance with their diabetes management for children who are in daycare, camps, or other recreational programs.

If any individual feels that he or she is discriminated against in the workplace as a result of their diabetes, then the individual can file a claim or speak with a legal advocate at the American Diabetes Association. Also, diabetics may need to have necessary paperwork to carry some diabetes management devices through security checkpoints, such as an airport security checkpoint. Ask your doctor for more information about obtaining the necessary paperwork or for any questions related to diabetes and diabetes management!

Sources:

http://www.diabetes.org/advocacy-and-legalresources/discrimination/public-accommodation.jsp

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