Documentation

The DRO requires students to submit documentation in support of their accommodation requests in service of the following purposes:

1. It establishes that the individual is entitled to legal protections under the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
2. It helps to determine what, if any, course design/environmental adaptations are necessary for the individual’s equitable access to courses, programs, services, and activities.

Costs incurred in obtaining documentation are the responsibility of the student. Although not required, students may request their medical provider complete the Disability Verification Form. Providers are encouraged to include as much detail as possible in the Disability Verification Form as it is designed to collect information to help the DRO make informed decisions about accommodation requests.

Documentation Guidelines

Sufficient documentation:

• Is completed within the last 3 years.
• Is completed by a qualified professional whose expertise is within the scope of practice for the stated impairment and who has first-hand knowledge of your condition.
• Includes educational, developmental, and medical history relevant to the disability.
• Adequately verifies the nature and extent of the disability in accordance with current professional standards and techniques.
• Provides information on how the impact and functional limitations of the disability currently interfere with college life.
• Clearly substantiates the need for specific accommodation requests.

Possibly insufficient documentation:

• States a diagnosis as the only justification for accommodations.
• Is After Care Instructions.
• Is insufficient relative to the Documentation Guidelines.
• Is completed by a relative.
• Is completed by a professional whose expertise is not within the scope of practice for the stated impairment.
• Is handwritten notes on a prescription pad.