DISABILITY INCLUSION: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF CDC, APA ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSION MATURITY MODEL, AND WHO FRAMEWORKS

Abstract

Disability inclusion has emerged as a critical global priority, emphasizing the need to promote health equity, accessibility, dignity, and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities across social, organizational, and healthcare contexts. This study explores contemporary disability inclusion frameworks developed by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Psychological Association (APA) Accessibility and Inclusion Maturity Model (AIMM), and the World Health Organization (WHO) Disability Inclusion Strategy. These frameworks collectively highlight the transition from impairment-focused approaches toward biopsychosocial and rights-based models that recognize disability as the result of interactions between individual characteristics and environmental, social, and institutional barriers. The study examines key principles including universal design, reasonable accommodation, non-discrimination, accessibility, participation of persons with lived experience, and inclusive organizational practices. The CDC framework emphasizes equitable access to health promotion and disease prevention, while the APA AIMM focuses on psychological, social, and organizational dimensions of disability inclusion within workplaces. The WHO strategy provides a comprehensive global approach through leadership commitment, inclusive programming, accessible systems, and organizational culture transformation. This analysis highlights that sustainable disability inclusion requires collaborative efforts among policymakers, healthcare providers, organizations, communities, and individuals with disabilities. Integrating accessibility and inclusion into policies, practices, and evaluation mechanisms is essential for reducing disparities, promoting autonomy, and ensuring equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.