FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NDSS Contact:
Michelle Sagan
301-728-0447
NDSS Releases Primary Care Provider’s Guide To Women’s Health And Down Syndrome
Washington, D.C. (July 30, 2024)- The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) announced the release of a new resource titled, “Primary Care Provider’s Guide to Women’s Health and Down Syndrome,” aimed at educating primary care providers about the nuanced health care needs of women with Down syndrome.
According to recent statistics, only five percent of adults with Down syndrome have access to clinics specialized in care for the Down syndrome community. Women with Down syndrome also receive less gynecological care than other forms of health care, especially when compared to women without Down syndrome. Considering these disparities in healthcare access and delivery, this resource seeks to help primary care providers better understand how to care for this patient population by providing practical strategies and current data.
Content is available in two formats, a traditional guidebook and an eLearning course, and was designed to equip primary care providers with essential knowledge and resources for addressing the unique health care needs of women with Down syndrome.
Additionally, this guidebook was informed by and includes perspectives from women with Down syndrome, ensuring that it is inclusive and reflective of the needs of the community it serves.
NDSS Senior Director of Health and Wellness, Margot Rhondeau, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “This guide is a crucial step towards ensuring that women with Down syndrome receive the comprehensive healthcare they deserve. By equipping primary care providers with essential information, we are closing the gap in healthcare and promoting better health outcomes for all women with Down syndrome.”
The guide and eLearning course were made possible through collaboration with Dr. Hannah Graham of Advocate Health Care and Kramer Davis Health, with funding support from the WITH Foundation. The American Academy of Developmental Medicine and Dentistry and Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group-USA supported the identification of reviewers and contributors.
Both formats of the guidebook are available for free. Learn more.
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About NDSS
Founded in 1979, the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by driving policy change, providing resources, engaging with local communities, and shifting public perceptions. NDSS engages grassroots advocates at the federal, state, and local levels and creates resources to support individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and caregivers across the lifespan on topics including education, employment, health and wellness, and aging. NDSS founded the National Buddy Walk® Program in 1995 and hosts community engagement events throughout the country including the New York City Buddy Walk® and Times Square Video, the NDSS Adult Summit, and the Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference. Visit www.ndss.org to learn more.