Disability Services

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment that empowers students of all abilities to achieve their academic and professional goals. At Ponce Health Sciences University (PHSU), we comply with federal, state, and local laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 1973 and Post-Secondary Passport for Reasonable Accommodation Act, (Law No. 250 of September 15, 2012).

Our Office of Student Affairs is dedicated to ensuring equal access to educational opportunities for students with disabilities, providing reasonable accommodations, and offering resources to help students succeed academically and personally. All information related to a student’s disability is treated with strict confidentiality and is only shared with relevant parties as necessary to implement accommodations.

Our Commitment to Accessibility

PHSU adheres to the following principles to support students with disabilities:

• Providing equal access to academic programs, facilities, and activities.
• Ensuring reasonable accommodations are available to meet individual needs.
• Promoting awareness and sensitivity to disability-related issues within the campus community.

Eligibility for Services

Ponce Health Sciences University is an institution of higher education committed to the well-being of students in all aspects of their life. Our purpose is to provide services to students in accordance with “Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990” and its amendments. Also, in compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 1973 and Post-Secondary Passport for Reasonable Accommodation Act, (Law No. 250 of September 15, 2012).

I. Reasonable accommodation: “Modifications or adjustments to the tasks, environment or to the way things are usually done that enable individuals with disabilities to have an equal opportunity to participate in an academic program or a job.” (U.S. Department of Education, 2007).

II. Disability: “Physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a record of such an impairment, or being regards as having such an impairment.” (ADA, 2008).

III. Qualified student with disability: Is a student with disability who meets the academic requirements and technical standards requisite for admission or participation in the institutions’ education program or activity.

IV. Documentation required: Reasonable Accommodation Request Form and Certification of Disability (must be completed by a health professional specialized in the condition you are requested accommodations.

How to Request Reasonable Accommodations

1.Self-Identification

Students must voluntarily disclose their disability to the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) to begin the accommodation process.

2. Submit Documentation

Provide current and comprehensive documentation of your disability, including a diagnosis and recommended accommodations, from a qualified healthcare professional. Documentation requirements may vary depending on the nature of the disability.

3. Interactive Process

Once documentation is received, students will meet with the OSA staff to discuss their needs and develop an individualized accommodation plan.

4. Reasonable Accommodation Committee

A group of professionals evaluates the request for accommodation, on a need basis only, and provides recommendations for implementation.

Examples of Accommodations

PHSU provides a wide range of accommodations tailored to individual needs, including:

• Extended time for exams and assignments
• Note-taking assistance
• Alternative formats for course materials
• Accessible classrooms and facilities
• Assistive technology
• Priority registration
• Reduced-distraction testing environments