ADA Building Access

PURPOSE / SCOPE:

The Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM) is committed to providing equal access to its facilities, programs, and services for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors, including individuals with disabilities. This policy outlines procedures and responsibilities to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and applicable state laws.

DEFINITIONS:

• Disability: As defined by the ADA, a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
• Reasonable Accommodation: Modifications or adjustments to a facility, program, or service that enable an individual with a disability to have equal access, without imposing undue hardship on the institution.
• Barrier: Any physical or architectural feature that limits or prevents access for individuals with disabilities.

POLICY:

This policy is designed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and relevant Idaho state laws, while reflecting best practices for higher education institutions. This policy applies to all ICOM-owned or leased buildings, grounds, and facilities, as well as any off-site locations used for official purposes.

ICOM will ensure that:

• All new construction and major renovations will meet or exceed ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) and applicable building codes.
• Existing facilities are evaluated for accessibility barriers, and reasonable modifications will be made to provide access.
• Individuals with disabilities have equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from ICOM programs, services, and activities.
• Requests for reasonable accommodations related to building access will be addressed promptly and effectively.

Procedures for Requesting Building Access Accommodation

1. Submission: Individuals may submit requests in writing, by email, or verbally to the ADA Coordinator.
2. Review: The ADA Coordinator will assess the request, consult with relevant departments, and determine appropriate accommodations.
3. Implementation: Approved accommodations will be implemented promptly, with timelines communicated to the requester.

Appeals: If a request is denied, the individual may appeal to the Office of the Dean within 15 business days.

Responsibilities

• Facilities Operations Department:
  • Conduct regular accessibility audits of all buildings.
  • Maintain accessible routes, entrances, restrooms, signage, and parking spaces.
  • Ensure emergency evacuation plans include provisions for individuals with disabilities.
• ADA Coordinator (appointed by ICOM):
  • Serve as the primary contact for accessibility concerns.
  • Review and respond to accommodation requests.
  • Coordinate with Facilities and other departments to implement modifications.
• Faculty and Staff:
  • Be aware of building access features and assist individuals who request help.
  • Report accessibility issues to the ADA Coordinator or the Facilities Operations Department.
  • Reach out to ADA Coordinator in a timely manner for accommodation requests.
• Students:
  • Reach out to ADA Coordinator in a timely manner for accommodation requests.
  • Communicate with the ADA coordinator and ICOM staff when needs arise.

Emergency Access and Evacuation

ICOM will maintain emergency evacuation procedures that address the needs of individuals with mobility, sensory, or other disabilities. Staff will receive training on assisting individuals during emergencies.

Training and Awareness

ICOM will provide periodic training to faculty, staff, and student leaders on ADA requirements, building accessibility features, and procedures for assisting individuals with disabilities.

Reporting and Resolution of Accessibility Issues

Accessibility concerns can be reported to the ADA Coordinator via email, phone, or in person. Reports will be investigated within 10 business days, and corrective actions will be taken as needed.

Compliance and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually by the ADA Coordinator and the Facilities Operations Department to ensure ongoing compliance with federal and state regulations.

Contact Information

ADA Coordinator
Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine
Jennifer Ross, Director of Student Success
jross@icom.edu
208-795-4290

POLICY OWNER:

Sr. Director of Facilities Operations

APPROVAL:

Effective: 02/23/2026

Last Reviewed:

Review Requirement: Annual