By their nature, humanitarian disasters and conflicts harm health systems and the health of people whom they affect. Apartfrom the direct effects of injuries and trauma, they exacerbate public health concerns (including the incidence of malaria,cholera, malnutrition, non-communicable diseases, and problems of sexual and reproductive health) because they disrupt socialprotection systems as well as essential health services. For persons with disabilities, many of whom access education andshelter and other services on referral from health services, crises and disasters disrupt their access to care, worseningthe position of those who are already excluded or marginalized.
Persons with disabilities have the right to access all mainstream health services and to receive information about their healthconditions and treatment. They also have the right to make decisions about treatment (informed consent). Many medical staff hold misperceptions about the capacity and requirements of persons with disabilities. They often assumethey need disability-related services alone; or they permit family members, medical staff or other proxies to give consenton their behalf.
The absence of health services or their disruption can have grave consequences for persons with disabilities. For example,if it is perceived that women with disabilities are asexual, they may be excluded from sexual and reproductive health services,putting them at higher risk of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections. If children with disabilities are notappropriately identified, they may not receive child development interventions and may fail to reach their potential.
See also WASH, Food security and nutrition, Education and Protection.