Workplace discrimination and healthcare: The national EEOC ADA research project

Using the Integrated Mission System of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the employment discrimination experience of Americans with disabilities within the Healthcare industry is explored. Specifically, the researchers examined discrimination allegations closed with and without merit associated with each of the nine Standard Identification Classification code healthcare service groups. Allegations made against skilled nursing, intermediate care, and personal care facilities, particularly those in the Southern region of the United States, were more likely to close with merit than those made against both hospitals and home health providers. Race predicted closure status with persons of mixed ethnic heritage, Asian Americans, and Native Americans most likely to have merit closures. The authors offer strategies for addressing discriminatory practices while providing opportunities for accommodations in an industry stressed by high turnover rates.