The Office of Disability Services (ODS) may offer limited services to students with temporary impairments or injuries with an expected duration of less than one semester. If the duration of your impairment is expected to be short-term, please attempt to work out obtaining appropriate classroom considerations with your instructors.
Step 1 : Submit Documentation:
Complete an application and submit documentation of your impairment by visiting the ODS Online Portal. Documentation must be provided by the treating physician and include:
- diagnosis
- functional limitations experienced by the student as a result of the injury
- expected duration and prognosis
- suggestions as to how the injury might be offered consideration
Step 2: Schedule an Appointment
Meet with an Accommodations Specialist. Students may make this appointment by phone at (205) 348-4285, or in person with reception staff.
Please be aware that temporary impairments are not qualified disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and do not afford ADA protections. In preparation for your appointment:
- Email and/or meet with each instructor during office hours to determine appropriate classroom considerations.
- In the case of hand/arm injuries, ask a classmate for copies of notes.
- Be aware of the limitations of ODS Assistance for Students with Temporary Impairments:
- Staff intervention for temporary impairments is not retroactive. Students must complete the registration process and meet with an Accommodations Specialist before receiving considerations. ODS cannot assist you with matters that occurred prior to completing the registration process.
- ODS has no means of providing transportation to/from class. Information about temporary permits for medical conditions can be located on the Transportation Services website.
- ODS does not lend or provide durable medical equipment (i.e., wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, motorized scooters), personal devices, or technology for personal use. DCH Medical Equipment is a local resource for durable medical equipment.
Step 3: Send Consideration Letters
Following the meeting with an Accommodations Specialist, students may request electronic consideration letters be sent to course instructors. Letters will include an expiration date based on the projected length of need for considerations.
Step 4: Meet with Instructor
Students should meet with instructors to discuss the considerations in order to have them applied to that course.
Durable Medical Equipment
Students who are searching for durable medical equipment (i.e., wheelchair, scooter, mobility device, etc.) may contact the following providers:
