Innovating Nursing Education Through Partnership With Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Abstract

Background Health disparities of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have been a longstanding public health concern. Unlike the engagement of service sectors and governmental entities in advocating for human rights and health equity, the nursing profession remains absent from these discussions. Transformational changes are needed to promote systemic changes that will improve health outcomes of individuals with IDD. Method Strategic planning is needed to effect transformational changes in nursing education. Innovation in nursing education involves an informed understanding of health care barriers that individuals with IDD experience and the necessary processes to effectively engage in partnerships with this population. Results An approach for change in nursing education is proposed based on IDD concepts in federal legislation and initiatives, social policies, and the self-advocacy movement, and its application in nursing education is described. Conclusion Integrating IDD concepts into nursing curricula can improve health care equity and health outcomes of individuals with IDD.