INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS: Documentation Guidelines for Medical Disabilities

Printable version of these gudelines

AEO works in close collaboration with other Harvard-based resources to evaluate and address health-related concerns in this setting. Although a student's academic and accommodation histories are important, there are other factors which are considered in determining what, if any, accommodations are appropriate now; and the receipt of services in a previous setting does not automatically indicate that identical services will be provided here. Students who have had an in-depth opportunity to review the findings of their clinical information with the person who provided the documentation are best equipped to make appropriate transitions in their University programs.

Sometimes students may be asked to provide updated comprehensive information if their condition is potentially changeable and/or previous documentation doesn't include sufficient relevant information.

The following guidelines for medical disabilities(including mobility, manual, hearing and visual) and conditions resulting from temporary illnesses and injuries are provided to assist students who plan to submit clinical documentation to AEO. Please see separate guidelines for learning, attentional and psychiatric disabilities.

1. The clinician appears to be qualified to make the diagnosis in the area of specialization and is not a member of the student's family.

2. The evaluation is typewritten on professional letterhead, is current, usually within 3 months, and contains the date of the last appointment with the student.

3. The clinician clearly indicates a claimed disability as defined under the ADAAA.

4. Current clinical documentation clearly supports the claimed disability with relevant medical and other history.

5. The evaluation contains a description of current medications, treatments and assistive devices and technologies; and history of medication side effects known to have affected the student.

6. There is a description of the functional limitations resulting from the disability which specifically addresses a postsecondary residential setting; and reference to allowable activities is included.

7. The current clinical documentation clearly supports the direct link to and need for the requested accommodations.