Blind/Low Vision

Aspects of Documentation

Statement of Disability

The written diagnostic assessment must contain a clear statement that a visual disability is present. The diagnostic report should include specific recommendations for accommodations as well as an explanation as to why each accommodation is recommended.

Diagnostic Report

The decision to provide services will be determined from a written diagnostic report based upon the following guidelines. The written diagnostic assessment must contain:

• Summary of present symptoms which meet the criteria for diagnosis of a visual disability;
• Medical information relating to the student’s needs and the status of the student’s vision (static or changing) and its impact on the demands of the academic program;
• Narrative or descriptive text providing both quantitative and qualitative information about the student’s abilities which might be helpful in understanding the student’s profile, including the use of corrective lenses and ongoing visual therapy (if appropriate).

Professional Evaluator

The assessment must be administered by a opthamologist, optometrist, or other licensed medical specialist who has experience and expertise in the assessment and diagnosis of visual impairments.

Date of Testing

The assessment must have been completed within the past five years and be updated if changes occur while the student is enrolled at Macalester in order to ensure the provision of appropriate services.

Reminder

Requested documentation must be received in the Disability Services office, and a brief Intake Meeting (15 minutes or so) must be completed in order to receive accommodations during the semester. Please contact Disability Services ([email protected], 651-696-6874) as soon as possible to avoid a delay in securing services.