Although it shouldn't be the case, people with diabetes do face discrimination in many areas of life. You should know that as a diabetic, you have rights, and the best way to ensure these rights is through knowledge. Know the laws that protect your child and yourself from discrimination based on your illness. Three laws of importance where children's rights are concerned are: The Rehabilitation Act 1973, section 504, The Americans with Disabilities Act and the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act).

Rights of the diabetic child

Sadly, the diabetic child may face challenges at school and at daycare just because of the condition. The diabetic child may be prevented from participating in sporting events even if they are good at what they do.  

The best way to deal with discrimination against the diabetic child is to educate the school or daycare community. The biggest reason for discrimination is normally a lack of knowledge. Once you let the offending parties know how to care for a child with diabetes, the issues should be put to rest. However, there will still be those who are afraid that something may go wrong and therefore prohibit the child from taking part in certain activities. In these instances, you may need mediation or even legal intervention.  

Discrimination and the diabetic adult

Workplace discrimination is one of the biggest challenges faced by the adult living with diabetes. Some adults may be bypassed for a promotion simply because they are diabetic and their employers feel that this may affect their performance.

Most, if not all, workplace anti-discrimination laws should address discrimination based on diabetes. However, you must be able to prove that discrimination really occurred and that it happened as a result of your illness.

Unfortunately, it is not only in the workplace that the diabetic faces discrimination. In applying for a driver's license, the diabetic may also face some level of discrimination. This results from the fact that diabetes can affect your eyes, resulting in blurred vision. Others factors that are sometimes used as a reason to deny a person with diabetes a driver's license include the risk of hypoglycemia. This means that the diabetic may fall into a coma or become unable to function behind a steering wheel.

People with diabetes have the right to own and operate a motor vehicle. Each individual should be assessed and medical records provided to highlight their medical history, as it concerns problems related to their illness. Only based on such a report should a decision be taken whether or not to issue a driver's license.

Fight against discrimination by educating employers and school officials about diabetes and any complications that may occur. Fear is the driving force behind some of the discrimination diabetics face daily. Once others understand and know more about diabetes their attitude may well change. If all else fails, seek legal representation to protect your rights. Getting the assistance of people in the political arena to call for new legislations is also another great way to protect your rights.

<< Controlling Diabetes

Diabetes and dental health >>

Tag it: