Disability Documentation Guidelines

Denison University requires documentation, within three years from the time of college enrollment, prepared by a qualified, licensed professional to document and diagnose a disability. The report must include a clear diagnosis and, where applicable, a history of the disability. To ensure the documentation is appropriate for eligibility purposes, the following guidelines apply:

• Hearing and speech disabilities: Evaluation should be conducted by an ear, nose, and throat specialist, audiologist, speech therapist, psychologist, family physician, or other qualified medical specialist.
• Learning disabilities: Diagnosis may be provided by a licensed psychologist, psychiatrist, school psychometrist, family physician, or other qualified licensed medical personnel.
• Psychological disabilities: Documentation should come from a psychologist, psychiatrist, licensed counselor, or other mental health professional.
• Physical disabilities: Reports must be prepared by a family physician, orthopedist, neurologist, cardiologist, rehabilitation specialist, or another qualified medical professional. Medical records must include a clear diagnosis and discussion of the condition.
• Visual disabilities: Assessment must be completed by an ophthalmologist, optometrist, family physician, or other relevant medical specialist.

This list is not exhaustive and does not preclude evaluations addressing additional relevant areas, such as vocational interests and aptitudes. Students can submit the health care provider documentation form to their licensed health care provider for information about their diagnosed disability.

The completed health care provider documentation form must then be submitted to Accessibility & Disability Services at:

Academic Resource Center
Attn: Accessibility & Disability Services
100 West College Street, Granville, OH 43023 | Higley Hall 020
Office: 740-587-6666
Fax: 740-868-1168
Email: disabilityservices@denison.edu

Evaluations must be current. As a general guideline, Denison University requires documentation prepared within the past three years. The Academic Resource Center reserves the right to request updated or more comprehensive evaluations when deemed necessary.

The written report must contain a specific diagnosis and include clear, specific evidence that identifies the existence of a disability.

Diagnostic reports must include the full name and professional title of the diagnostician, along with the date(s) of the evaluation. All reports must be typed and legible.

Confidential information may only be disclosed without written consent under the following circumstances: (1) in the event of a medical emergency; (2) pursuant to an official court order; or (3) when necessary to address behaviors that pose a risk to the health or safety of the student or others.