Online map providing detailed and verified data about the accessibility of medical facilities

The Avalon Foundation in Poland launched the Accessibility Map in 2020 to locate accessible medical facilities. By 2024, it covered 400 facilities and served 20,000+ users with specific accessibility needs.

The Avalon Foundation, established in 2007 in Lodz, is a Data Protection Organization. In 2020 it introduced the its Accessibility Map, an interactive tool designed to locate accessible medical services. This map caters to specific needs, such as special lifts or chairs required at medical facilities. By mid-2024 approximately 400 facilities across Poland will be searchable via the Accessibility Map, which has been utilized by over 20,000 individuals since its launch.

Problems Targeted

There is inadequate information on the accessibility of medical and sports facilities for people with disabilities, and medical staff lack knowledge on working with disabled patients.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

The Lodz-based Avalon Foundation – Direct Help for the Disabled has introduced the Accessibility Map, an innovative digital tool that provides detailed information regarding the accessibility of medical and sporting facilities in Poland. The data is meticulously compiled and consistently updated through extensive questionnaires and verification methods, conducted in collaboration with medical institutions and sports venues. The platform offers: Detailed search filters: Users can search for facilities based on specific needs, such as adjustable gynaecological chairs, lifts for transferring from a wheelchair to a fixed chair, weight chairs, and induction loops. Geolocation feature for precise findability. Verified database: The information is collected and verified through a multi-stage process, ensuring accuracy and reliability. The database currently includes over 400 medical and sports facilities. User involvement: The Accessibility Map is created by people with disabilities who collect data, provide substantive support, and conduct training as part of an expert team. The Accessibility Map continuously adds users each year, with a record number of 18,525 new users in the first six month of 2024.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

The Accessibility Map is supported by the Avalon Foundation’s resources and small donations. The foundation plans to expand the number of facilities listed, continue to increase the number of users, and provide training sessions for medical and administrative staff. (Zero Project Awardee 2025)

Pictures

The Accessibility Map allows users to locate accessible services according to their needs.

The Accessibility Map allows users to locate accessible services according to their needs.

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