2025 Annual Report

CHALLENGING MISCONCEPTIONS IN MEDICINE

Those conversations often reveal challenges such as isolation, limited access to resources, and the emotional strain that comes with full-time caregiving responsibilities. Wozow emphasizes partnership, helping families feel supported rather than solely responsible for advocating for their child’s needs. Kassel shares that perspective. She describes many families’ experiences as a scavenger hunt for services, benefits, and therapies their children may qualify for but struggle to access. Streamlining access to care and coordinating services can help reduce delays in treatment and improve the overall experience for families. “Families caring for children with medical complexity already have so much on their plate,” said Kassel. “Streamlining access to care and resources is a critical part of supporting them.”

Both physicians are committed to addressing misconceptions surrounding disability in health care settings. They emphasize that disability should not be viewed as inherently tragic or avoided because of perceived complexity. “People with disabilities are people first,” said Wozow. “They have interests, goals, and relationships just like anyone else.” Kassel adds that hesitation among clinicians often stems from limited exposure and training. By encouraging early and consistent interaction with individuals with disabilities during medical education, she believes providers can develop confidence and competence rather than discomfort.

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2025 ACADEMIC ANNUAL REPORT