Overview
Although just one source of information, documentation from a qualified healthcare professional that describes the disability and/or health condition and that shares the functional impact on the student’s academic experiences can be very helpful in identifying the accommodations that are right for you. Below is information for Pierce College only. Other colleges or testing agencies will have their own guidelines or requirements.
Documentation helps us:
- Establish that the student can be considered a person with a disability, and therefore eligible for protection against discrimination based on disability.
- Can help us understand information from the student regarding the impact of the disability.
- Help us development of reasonable accommodation (auxiliary aids and services) designed to facilitate equal access to Pierce College environments on a case-by-case basis.
Documentation Requirements
Documentation should include:
- A diagnosis of the disability/health condition
- A description of the current impact/limitations of the disability/health condition with specific focus on barriers to the educational and/or housing environment
- A discussion of whether the disability/health condition is permanent or temporary
- If temporary, please provide information on the expected duration of the disability/health condition and timeline for re-evaluation.
Documentation should be from a qualified healthcare provider and include:
- Contact information
- License number
- Signature or electronic signature
Documentation may be submitted in, but is not limited to, one of the following formats:
- ADS Healthcare Provider Form (except for learning disabilities and traumatic brain injuries)
- Qualified providers professional letterhead
- Official visit summary, such as emergency department discharge papers
- Neuropsychological assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I submit my documentation?
Documents can be uploaded in the myADS application, emailed to ADS@pierce.ctc.edu, faxed to 253-912-3712, or dropped off at the ADS office at the Puyallup or Fort Steilacoom campus.
What if I am not sure if my documentation is enough to qualify me for services?
Go ahead and submit what you have for review. Documentation starts the conversation and is only one piece of the process. If additional documentation is needed, ADS will work with you and provide options and resources.
What if I do not have any documentation?
Contact ADS to learn more about options and resources.
What is the privacy requirement for health/disability information provided to ADS?
All information and documentation submitted to the ADS office is kept separate from an academic record and is considered private under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). HIPAA privacy and confidentiality guides do not apply to documents submitted to ADS as they are not being used for treatment. Under FERPA guidelines ADS cannot guarantee complete confidentiality as they may be times when sharing some information with other Pierce College staff/faculty is necessary in the facilitation of the accommodation process however this information is provided on a strictly need to know basis.