DDS Preventive Health Screenings for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

Recognizing that regular preventive health screenings can help people with ID remain healthy and have a good quality of life, CDDER and the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) developed, piloted, and implemented systems and tools to enhance health care quality and communication. The centerpiece of this initiative was the dissemination of the MA DDS preventive health screening guidelines for adults with ID. These tools are for use by clinicians, staff, individuals, and families to understand the preventive health screenings that are recommended by age and diagnoses.

Table of Contents

How to Use These Tools

Preventive Health Screening Checklists

This is a summary checklist for use by the self-advocate, family member, or support provider to help guide the discussion with the Health Care Provider (HCP) about which screening tests are recommended for a particular individual. This form should be completed prior to the individual’s annual visit. Staff should review the individual’s health record and check off preventive screenings that are likely due based on age, sex, and risk factors. These screenings can then be discussed with the HCP at the annual visit.

Preventive Health Screening Checklists are organized by sex (male or female) and age.

Educational Videos

Individuals should see their Health Care Provider at least once a year and get recommended health screenings. This can lead to a long and healthy life! These short videos are for self-advocates and families. These videos explain preventive health screenings, show how to advocate for yourself with the Health Care Provider, and give tips for preparing for the annual health visit and for screening tests.

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