A Medical Advocacy Moment
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A Medical Advocacy Moment
Today, I had a doctor’s appointment with my Endocrinologist to discuss my blood sugar levels. And it turned out to be a beautiful and rare moment to advocate for physicians’ offices to provide information to low vision patients about accessibility tools. The nurse practitioner asked me, because I am blind, how do I independently check my blood sugar levels? She was aware that I utilized the device called 14 Day Freestyle Libre. This small device is inserted into your arm or belly, and works like a meter with your phone app to register your sugar levels. Before each meal, you can swipe the app over the device and get a meter reading.
She thought that because I am blind, I would have to have someone read to me my blood sugar number that would be displayed on my phone. I shared with her that I use an accessibility tool on my iPhone called VoiceOver. And VoiceOver allows me to scan what is on my screen and it will read out loud to me the text that is on the screen. I demonstrated how it works to her in the doctor’s office, and she exclaimed that she was going to share this with all of her low vision patients who are having such difficulties reading their sugar levels, which is, of course, a health concern.
I also shared with her to please let her low vision patients know that they can learn more about all the wonderful accessibility tools and strategies available to them to enhance their life if they would join or learn about organizations like MedRVA Low Vision Center, a non-profit here in Richmond that serves the central Virginia low vision population with specific exams geared toward addressing individuals functional problems by equipping them with tools and resources. I also recommended the American Council of the Blind of Virginia, which can provide informational resources, monthly programs, advocacy opportunities, and social support. Finally, the Virginia Department of the Blind and Visually Impaired is another valuable state agency that provides training and a wealth of other services for Virginians who are blind or have low vision.
I am thrilled that the nurse practitioner was so willing to listen and understand and support the needs of the patients that she sees every day in her office with visual impairments. It is my hope that more physicians’ offices will work in conjunction with these organizations to assist the total well-being of their clients.
Special Thanks to Elizabeth Baber and Dr. Shakira for all that you do to make it happen.
Debra Hill
Debra Hill is an independent inspirational singer, author, songwriter, and writer. As a blind performer, she adds a personal story of God’s faithfulness. Her life exemplifies that Christ’s power will work to lift all regardless of circumstances.
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