IDD Health Matters Ep 19: Exploring Health Equity in IDD with Dr. Deven Unadkat

Welcome to another enlightening episode of IDD Health Matters, hosted by Dr. Craig Escudé, MD, FAAFP, FAADM. In this episode, we are honored to have Dr. Deven Unadkat, an Emergency Physician with 19 years of experience, specializing in healthcare for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Join us as Dr. Unadkat shares his journey into the world of IDD healthcare. He recounts his experiences in an emergency department near an IRA in New Jersey, where he noticed a pattern of patients with IDD frequently visiting for minor issues. This observation led him to explore telehealth solutions, aiming to provide better, more accessible care for these individuals.

Discover how Dr. Unadkat and his colleagues pioneered a telemedicine service, partnering with provider agencies before the widespread adoption of such technology. Learn about the challenges and successes of implementing telehealth, particularly in the context of health equity for people with IDD.

This episode delves into the significant impact of telehealth services on quality of life, healthcare costs, and the overall healthcare experience for people with IDD. We discuss the importance of primary care physicians, the unique design of patient portals for this demographic, and the crucial role of communication between healthcare providers.

Dr. Unadkat emphasizes the significance of persistence, advocacy, and education in improving health equity for individuals with IDD. He shares his wisdom on how these elements can foster a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system. For more insights and to learn about the innovative services offered by StationMD, visit stationmd.com.

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