Breakout Session, 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Disability Advocacy in the Time of COVID-19

Session Overview

The COVID-19 global pandemic has affected and changed our lives in ways we will continue to experience going forward. As we have learned, certain communities are more at risk for the disease than others, including people with disabilities who have specific needs in terms of access to care, caregivers and supplies. The disability community is working diligently to raise the issues associated with COVID-19 to ensure that there will be equitable supports and services during this time. In this session, we will review the actions taken within Mass General Brigham, the local clinical leader in the fight against COVID-19, the response from the community across the Boston area and the associated silver linings that have moved us forward in ways that would not have otherwise happened. Beyond that, we will work together to brainstorm around concerns related to a potential second surge and to examine which innovative solutions are here to stay.

Objectives

After attending this session, participants will be able to:

  1. Identify the challenges unique to the disability community during the pandemic
  2. Explore innovative solutions to support our patients and communities
  3. Prepare for a second surge and consider long-term success of new practices and resources

 

Presenter

Colleen MoranColleen Moran

Director, Workforce Programs, Spaulding Rehabilitation Network

Colleen Moran serves as the Director of Workforce and Inclusion Programs at Spaulding Rehabilitation Network (SRN), part of the post-acute care services division of Mass General Brigham.  SRN provides a spectrum of post-acute care including rehabilitation hospitals, long term care, skilled nursing facilities and multiple outpatient centers.  Colleen also works with Mass General Brigham Talent Acquisition in the areas of diversity, inclusion and community outreach.

Colleen joined Mass General Brigham in 2001 and has over 25 years of experience in Human Resources in healthcare, high-tech manufacturing and financial services.  She holds Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from Boston College.

Colleen has a long-standing interest in advocating for the employment for people with disabilities and participates in a variety of related boards, committees and activities.  She has presented both locally and nationally on disability and workforce development issues.   Colleen leads several initiatives including Project SEARCH, Working Partners and JobLab, a vibrant space for community organizations, government departments, businesses to convene with and train job candidates with barriers to entry into the workforce.