Disability Services

Disability Services

The American Disabilities Act (ADA) defines ‘disability’ as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities or who has a record of such impairment even if they do not currently have a disability (http://adata.org/)

The School of Medical Imaging Programs does not request disability information from program candidates. Likewise, candidates are advised not to discuss or disclose a disability to program faculty, students, or other representatives. The programs do not discriminate based on disability in any of their programs, services, or activities. The Schools of Medical Imaging will not deny any otherwise qualified student with a disability the opportunity to participate in or benefit from any aid, benefit, or service that the Schools provide. The Schools of Medical Imaging strives to ensure that all disabled students have full access to the benefits of the Schools and will engage in a good faith interactive process with all disabled students to attempt to identify reasonable accommodations. Reasonable accommodations do not include measures that fundamentally alter academic programs, which place an undue financial burden on the Schools, or which may endanger the student or others at the Schools of Medical Imaging. Additional information regarding accommodations will be provided to the enrolled student. 

Ascension St. Vincent's facilities adhere fully to the standards set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) concerning facility accessibility. Students seeking information or assistance regarding disability services are encouraged to contact the Radiography Program Director for support concerning learning disabilities. Alternatively, for any inquiries pertaining to physical disabilities, students may contact the Ascension St. Vincent's Associate Relations Department.
For detailed information regarding Ascension St. Vincent's Reasonable Accommodation Policy, please refer to the provided link: Ascension St. Vincent's - Reasonable Accommodation Policy

Physical Requirements 

As prospective candidates for the Radiography program, it's important to understand the physical demands inherent to this field of study. Radiography involves a combination of cognitive skills, technical proficiency, and physical capabilities. Below, we outline the tasks that you may encounter frequently and occasionally throughout your training:

Frequently:

  1. Standing: Radiography often requires prolonged periods of standing while operating equipment or assisting patients.
  2. Lifting: You may be required to lift and position patients, as well as maneuver heavy equipment.
  3. Bending and Stooping: To ensure proper positioning of patients and equipment, bending and stooping are common.
  4. Manual Dexterity: Precise manipulation of equipment controls and patient positioning necessitates excellent manual dexterity.
  5. Communication: Effective communication with patients to provide instructions and reassurance is essential.

Occasionally: 

  1. Pushing and Pulling: Transporting equipment and assisting patients may involve pushing and pulling.
  2. Repetitive Motion: Performing certain procedures may involve repetitive motions, such as adjusting equipment or positioning patients.
  3. Physical Endurance: Some procedures may be physically demanding and require sustained effort over extended periods.
  4. Visual Acuity: Clear visual acuity is essential for interpreting images accurately and ensuring patient safety.
  5. Cognitive Skills: Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are necessary for adapting to unique patient situations and unexpected challenges.

It's important to recognize that while these physical demands are integral to the practice of radiography, accommodations can often be made to support individuals with specific needs or limitations. If you have any concerns or require accommodations due to a disability or medical condition, please contact the Radiography Program Director or the Ascension St. Vincent's Associate Relations Department.

We encourage all prospective students to carefully consider these physical demands and ensure they align with your capabilities and career aspirations.