Ep 47: Improving Health Equity for Individuals with IDD: Insights from Lorene Reagan

Welcome to the IDD Health Matters Podcast with Dr. Craig Escude, where we explore health, wellness, and health equity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). In this episode, Dr. Escude hosts Lorene Reagan, a seasoned professional with 40 years of experience in IDD nursing. Lorene shares her journey into the field, which began by chance in 1984 when she took a job at a school for children with IDD. She describes her diverse career, from clinical nursing and working in group homes to serving as the Nurse Coordinator for the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services. Her extensive experience includes administrative roles, working with the New Hampshire Board of Nursing, and consulting for a National Medicaid firm. Currently, she contributes her vast knowledge and expertise at IntellectAbility. The conversation delves into the significant challenges in achieving health equity for people with IDD. Lorene and Dr. Escude discuss issues such as the lack of preventive care, untreated chronic conditions, and systemic barriers that contribute to these health disparities. Despite these challenges, they also highlight positive changes, such as the shift from institutional to community-based support systems and the increased focus on health equity by national and international organizations. Lorene emphasizes the importance of education and the evolving role of developmental disabilities nurses. She encourages nurses to get involved with professional organizations like the Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association (DDNA) and to stay informed about the latest clinical practice guidelines. In a segment called "Three in Three," Lorene offers three actionable suggestions for improving health care for people with IDD: Get to know individuals with IDD and their families to better advocate for their healthcare needs. Become involved in interdisciplinary teams and support the broader community of IDD healthcare professionals. Stay updated with the most current clinical practice guidelines to provide the best care possible. Join Dr. Escude and Lorene Reagan for an insightful discussion filled with valuable advice, personal anecdotes, and a shared passion for improving health equity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.