Ep 164: Training and Tools That Transform IDD Healthcare

Daleigh Talent, Clinical Director at IntellectAbility, describes her journey from business to nursing, her experience working in long-term care and group homes, and how tools such as the Health Risk Screening Tool help identify health risks early, support better care planning, and improve outcomes for people with IDD. The discussion highlights the importance of ongoing training for healthcare providers, direct support professionals, and community members, as well as the value of recognizing early signs of health issues to prevent emergency room visits and hospitalizations. They also discuss research showing that education initiatives, including Fatal Five training, can significantly reduce urgent care utilization, improve staff awareness, and lower healthcare costs. The episode concludes with Daleigh's key recommendations: provide specialized IDD healthcare training, increase community awareness and advocacy, and equip support staff with tools and resources to identify health changes early and take appropriate action.