Resource Library

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces federal laws that protect individuals from discrimination in healthcare and human services programs. OCR investigates complaints involving disability discrimination, race, color, national origin, age, sex, and religion in organizations that receive HHS funding. The office also enforces patient privacy rights under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and provides guidance on accessibility, reasonable accommodations, and equal access to healthcare. Individuals who believe their civil rights have been violated can file a complaint directly with OCR through its online portal.

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing laws that prohibit discrimination in the workplace. The EEOC investigates complaints involving disability, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, and retaliation. The agency also provides guidance on workplace rights, reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), mediation services, and information to help employees and employers understand their rights and responsibilities.

The Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping patients access healthcare and navigate complex medical and insurance challenges. PAF provides individualized case management, financial aid through disease-specific copay relief programs, assistance with insurance appeals, debt crisis support, disability and employment issues, and connections to community resources. The organization advocates for patients facing barriers to care, helping them access treatment, medications, and essential healthcare services while reducing financial hardship.

The American Association on Health and Disability (AAHD) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health and wellness for people with disabilities. AAHD advances disability inclusion through education, public policy, research, and advocacy while connecting individuals to valuable health resources. The organization also administers an annual scholarship program that supports students with disabilities pursuing higher education, helping reduce financial barriers and encourage academic success.

The Defeating Epilepsy Foundation Scholarship Program supports students affected by epilepsy as they pursue college, university, or vocational education. The program recognizes individuals who have demonstrated resilience, academic commitment, leadership, and service while navigating the challenges of living with epilepsy. In addition to helping reduce the financial burden of higher education, the scholarship encourages students to continue achieving their educational and career goals while raising awareness of epilepsy and its impact.