The Rights of The Diabetic - What They Are And How To Benefit From Them

There are a number of Acts that address the issue of discrimination against children and others with disabilities, especially in regard to education. In addition, you can help stop discrimination by educating the people who make decisions concerning your child. Sometimes situations of discrimination might arise out of the simple fact that many people aren't aware of what they're doing or saying. In many instances, the rights of the diabetic are abused simply out of ignorance.

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.

Discrimination against diabetics is felt in different spheres of life. One area where this is most prevalent is in obtaining a driver's license. The fact that diabetics may have certain physical limitations if their disease is not managed properly is used as a reason not to issue a license. Yes, some diabetics do become hypoglycemic and find themselves unable to safely operate a vehicle, but this is not a frequent occurrence. Each diabetic who applies for a driver's license should be dealt with on an individual basis and not across the board.

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.

Discrimination in any form should not be accepted, so if you have valid reason to feel that you are being discriminated against because of your medical condition, fight back. The American Diabetes Association lists ways to fight discrimination: educate and negotiate, litigate and legislate. In short, educate the offending parties about diabetes and negotiate a course of action suitable to all. Negotiating does not mean giving up your rights. To litigate means to take legal action if your attempt to educate and negotiate was not successful. Next, legislate - that is, take action politically by advocating for changes.

To learn more go to Diabetes Control and at Diabetes Prevention