Ableism in the health care professions: A systematic review of the experiences
and impact of ableism among healthcare providers with disabilities
Presented by Sally Lindsay
Date and Time
2025 Including Disability Summit
Pre-recorded Session
Pre-recorded Session
Link to be provided.
Abstract
People with disabilities experience concerning rates of ableism and are significantly under-represented within healthcare education and professions. Focusing on healthcare professions is important for enhancing the diversity and inclusion of equity-deserving groups within the workforce. The objective of this review was to explore the experiences and impact of workplace discrimination and ableism among healthcare providers and trainees with disabilities.
Methods: Systematic searches of seven databases from 2000 to January 2022 were conducted. Five reviewers independently applied the inclusion criteria,
extracted the data and rated the study quality.
Results: 48 studies met our inclusion criteria, representing 13,815 participants across six countries over a 21-year period. The findings highlighted rates and types of workplace ableism, which occurred at the institutional (i.e., inaccessible environments, physical barriers and unsupportive work environments) and individual level (i.e., negative attitudes, bullying, harassment). The impact of ableism on healthcare providers included difficulty disclosing due to fear of stigma, and effects on well-being and career development.
Conclusions: Our findings revealed a critical need for more research on the experiences of ableism amongst healthcare providers and the impact it has on their well-being. Further efforts should explore mechanisms for including and welcoming people with disabilities in healthcare professions.
About the Speakers
Dr. Sally Lindsay
Dr. Sally Lindsay is a Senior Scientist at Bloorview Research Institute, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital and a Professor in the Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto. She leads the transitions and inclusive environments (TRAIL) lab. Her research draws on a social determinants of health framework to optimize the social inclusion and well-being of children, youth and young adults with disabilities, especially as they transition to adulthood. She is an elected into the College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists of the Royal Society of Canada. She recently held an Early Researcher Award from the Ontario Ministry of Innovation for her work on improving employment for people with disabilities.
