Accessibility Documentation for Medical Centers and Private Practitioners
Accessibility in healthcare has become not only an ethical standard but also a legal requirement under Ukrainian law. All healthcare facilities, including private clinics and individual medical practitioners, are obligated to ensure barrier-free access for persons with disabilities and other people with limited mobility.
In this article, we will review which documents are required to confirm accessibility, how to prepare them, which standards apply, and what risks arise when these requirements are violated.
What Is Accessibility in a Medical Facility?
Accessibility means providing equal access to medical services for all patients, regardless of their physical abilities. According to the Law of Ukraine “On the Fundamentals of Social Protection of Persons with Disabilities in Ukraine,” all elements of the physical environment must be accessible.
Who Is Obligated to Ensure Accessibility?
- Private and public medical facilities (regardless of ownership)
- Private practitioners (FOP) providing medical services
- Newly built or reconstructed facilities being put into operation
- Tenants of premises where medical practice is conducted
Which Documents Are Required to Confirm Accessibility?
1. Accessibility Assessment Report
A document prepared by a certified architect or engineer. It includes:
- A list of identified barriers
- Recommendations for eliminating deficiencies
- Photographic documentation
2. Accessibility Passport
An official form that contains:
- Description of infrastructure elements (ramps, handrails, tactile markers)
- Compliance with DBN V.2.2-40:2018 “Accessibility of Buildings and Structures”
- Status of existing accessibility equipment
The passport is prepared by an engineering or design company holding the required certifications.
3. Reconstruction or Adaptation Project (if necessary)
If the facility does not meet accessibility requirements, a premises adaptation project is developed, which includes:
- Ramp, elevator, and navigation calculations
- Drawings that comply with DBN standards
- Cost estimates for the required works
4. Compliance Report
After completing adaptation works (if performed), a compliance report is issued and added to the facility’s operational documentation.
Accessibility Requirements for Medical Facilities
Main requirements under DBN V.2.2-40:2018:
- Barrier-free entrance: ramps with a slope up to 8%, automatic doors or doors with a handle at 0.8–1.2 m height
- Accessible restroom for persons with disabilities
- Waiting areas with sufficient maneuvering space for wheelchairs
- Tactile strips or indicators for visually impaired individuals
- Audio or visual navigation systems
What Are the Risks of Lacking Accessibility Documents?
- Refusal to issue an occupancy permit
In new construction or reconstruction, DIAM will not approve a facility without accessibility compliance. - Fines from the Labor Service or Social Protection Authorities
Penalties may reach up to 50 tax-free minimum incomes. - Claims from patients
Restricted access may result in consumer protection complaints or lawsuits. - Inability to sign a contract with the NHSU
Accessibility is one of the mandatory criteria for joining the National Health Service of Ukraine program.
Do Private Practitioners (FOP) Need These Documents?
Yes. Even if a practitioner works from an apartment or rented office, they must ensure:
- Either the presence of barrier-free access, if feasible
- Or a justified explanation of why adaptation is impossible, confirmed by an expert
In such cases, an accessibility assessment with expert conclusion is added to the practitioner’s documentation.
Typical Mistakes of Medical FOPs and Clinics
- Lack of an accessibility passport
- Incorrect ramp slope or homemade constructions
- Ignoring tactile navigation
- No accessible restroom
- Incorrectly prepared reports or assessments
How to Prepare the Documents Correctly?
- Contact a certified engineering company experienced in accessibility documentation
- Order an assessment, accessibility passport, and adaptation project (if required)
- Ensure all documentation complies with current state standards and DBN requirements
Conclusions
Accessibility is not only a matter of social responsibility — it is an obligatory requirement for legal medical practice. Proper documentation protects your business from fines and improves comfort for patients.
Need Assistance?
GlobalBud Ukraine specializes in preparing accessibility passports, reconstruction projects, and full support of medical facilities. Our engineers and lawyers ensure complete compliance with DBN requirements, legislation, and NHSU criteria.
We work with private clinics, private practitioners, and international healthcare organizations.
