Other health impairment
Last updated
Other health impairment is an IDEA category for health problems that limit strength, energy or alertness and adversely affect educational performance.
Topic: Disability categories and conditions
In plain terms
IDEA lists examples such as ADHD, asthma, diabetes, epilepsy, a heart condition, sickle cell anemia, leukemia and Tourette syndrome, but the list is not complete. "Limited alertness" includes heightened alertness to surroundings that reduces alertness to schoolwork, which is how many students with ADHD qualify. The student must also need special education, not only health accommodations.
How it shows up in an IEP
IEPs for OHI often pair an individual health plan with goals in executive function, attention, work completion or stamina. Absences and fatigue should be considered when setting timelines and data schedules.
Example
A student with ADHD qualifies under OHI. Goals target starting work within 2 minutes and turning in assignments using a planner check, with daily data from two teachers.
The rule
Federal reference: 34 CFR §300.8(c)(9).
Related terms
- ADHDADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition with patterns of inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity.
- Section 504Section 504 is a federal civil rights law that bans disability discrimination in programs that receive federal funds, including public schools.
- Eligibility determinationEligibility determination is the team decision, made after an evaluation, about whether a child has a disability under IDEA and needs special education.
- AccommodationAn accommodation changes how a student learns or shows learning, without changing what the student is expected to learn.
- Self-regulationSelf-regulation is the ability to manage one's energy, emotions, attention and behavior to fit the situation and reach goals.
On IEP Atlas
- Task Initiation IEP goals
- Assignment Completion IEP goals
- Organization IEP goals
- IEP goals for other health impairment
This page describes special education terms and federal rules in general terms and is not legal advice. Our editorial policy explains how IEP Atlas writes and reviews content. Browse all 244 terms.