The theme of the day will be Advancing Health Equity for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have long been experiencing health disparities. With the  COVID-19 pandemic came worsened health outcomes for people with IDD. It also brought needed attention and funds to research the emerging health disparities. The Arc of Pennsylvania received funds through the Pennsylvania Department of Health to do just that. The results of the three-year long project are what prompted this summit. Years of previous research was further reinforced by findings from the Arc of PA’s Initiative to Address COVID-19 Health Disparities Among People with Disabilities. The need for a conference dedicated exclusively to addressing health equity for people with IDD became apparent.

This conference addresses four areas: (1) Education of Medical Professionals, (2) Elevating the Voices of Self Advocates, (3) Policy Changes, and (4) Advancing Dental Care.

This is an in-person only event at the Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey hotel, with no option to attend or present virtually.

Cost is $75; Self advocates attend for free