The Medical Model of Disability

The medical model of disability is built around the belief that, "disability results from the physical or metal limitations of the individual and is largely unrelated to the physical and social environment in which people live" (Gottlieb, Myhill, Blanck). Basically, the medical model treats disability as the problem and the only way to "fix" the problem is through treatment or medical support. Because the medical model emphasizes the importance of care, persons with disabilities are often times, "excused from the normal obligations of society, such as work" (Gottilieb, Myhill, Blanck).

If living within the context of the medical model, persons with disabilities are limited in the choices they can make in terms of employment. It prevents them from becoming economically self-sufficient, and keeps them from realizing their full vocational potential.

Under the medical model, persons with disabilities are often times are unemployed. Those individuals who do find employment are often given a job within a segregated setting.

In my opinion, the following cartoon demonstrates the status of employment under the medical model.

The medical model treats all individuals with a disability in the same manner. Example: All persons with autism are categorically the same. Although their individual abilities vary from person to person, the medical model groups them all together.

As we all know, persons with Autism vary greatly in terms of ability and skill sets. To ask a group of persons with autism to complete the same tasks, in the same manner, would be like asking the animals above to all perform the task of climbing the tree in the same manner. Not only is it unrealistic to think this is possible, but it doesn't allow individuals to use their specific abilities to complete the task.

The medical model of disability helps to reinforce stereotypes held by employers. Some common misconceptions about employing individuals with disabilities are: 

1. Individuals with disabilities are less qualified than their non-disabled counterparts.

2. Employees with disabilities will have a higher absentee rate than those individuals without disabilities.

3. Business health care costs will increase.

4. Accommodating individuals with disabilities is costly and time consuming.

For more information about the myths involved in employing individuals with disabilities visit EARN - Employer Assistance and Resource Network website.