Cure SMA provided public comments on two federal regulatory proposals aimed at improving accessibility for people with SMA and other disabilities. 

• The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) proposed adopting accessibility standards for medical diagnostic equipment (MDE) at government-operated hospitals and health clinics. In its response, Cure SMA described how inaccessible exam tables, x-ray machines and other MDE have significantly limited or delayed healthcare access for individuals with SMA. "I have gone multiple years without ever getting my weight done because my doctor’s office can never do it,” said an adult with SMA referenced in Cure SMA's comments. Cure SMA urged DOJ to immediately adopt and enforce the accessibility standard for MDE in physicians’ offices, clinics, emergency rooms, hospitals, and other medical settings. Click here to read Cure SMA's full statement. 

• The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) sought feedback on whether DOT should improve accessibility of transportation-related facilities such as elevators and ramps at transit stations. Cure SMA noted that a broken elevator or other related transportation barrier can significantly delay or prevent the ability of a person with SMA to get to work, attend a doctor's appointment, or otherwise navigate their community. Cure SMA urged DOT to adopt stronger accessibility standards, including the number of accessible parking spots near transit stops and stations. “It is a daily struggle to locate an accessible parking space for our side-entry wheelchair accessible van as there are never enough accessible van spots," said a parent of a child with SMA featured in the SMA comments. Click here to read Cure SMA's full statement. 

Learn more about Cure SMA's ongoing advocacy to break down barriers and promote independence for people with SMA at Cure SMA's Information Center.