Project Title: Sensory-Friendly Health Care
The problem:
Doctors and nurses may be experts in medicine, but they do not always know how to provide care that works well for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Many people with I/DD have sensory sensitivities that can make medical offices, checkups, vaccinations, and other procedures stressful or overwhelming. This can make it harder for people with disabilities to get the care they need and harder for healthcare staff to provide support.
Action:
Starting in 2021, the California State Council on Developmental Disabilities (CA SCDD) worked with Sutter Health to create sensory-friendly and more accessible clinics for children and people receiving vaccinations. The Council shared ideas, tools, and best practices developed with people with I/DD, family members, advocates, and healthcare accessibility experts. Today, CA SCDD also provides training to healthcare professionals through medical schools, hospital training programs, and conferences across California.
Results:
As of 2026, Sutter Health continues to expand sensory-friendly and accessible clinics throughout California. Training, guidance, and sensory-friendly resources have been provided to healthcare organizations, public health departments, and leadership programs across the state.
UCSF has developed and adopted emergency department protocols to improve care for people with developmental disabilities.
Sutter Health has publicly announced sensory-friendly pediatric clinics serving the Fremont, Los Gatos, and Palo Alto areas, with plans to expand to additional locations.
Unique role of the Council:
CA SCDD brings together the lived experiences of people with disabilities and their families with the knowledge of healthcare and systems-change professionals. This unique combination helps create practical solutions that make healthcare more accessible and responsive to the needs of people with I/DD.