Temporary Assistance Information & Request

Generally, a temporary medical condition lasting less than 6 months is not regarded as a qualified disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and therefore does not qualify an individual for a disability accommodation. However, the University of Cincinnati will make reasonable efforts to support students with temporary impairments by providing temporary assistance when practicable. At times, a student’s temporary impairment may require the student to make adjustments to their schedules.  In those circumstances, a student may wish to take a medical leave of absence. Students with temporary impairments relating to pregnancy should contact the office of Gender Equity & Inclusion to discuss accommodations. 

The following are examples of impairments and assistance that may be available.  These examples are not intended to be an exhaustive list:

Examples of temporary impairments:

• Broken leg
• Broken arm
• Injuries requiring surgery
• Common health conditions (e.g. mononucleosis)

Examples of assistance that may be provided:

• Scribe
• Obtaining a temporary parking pass

Examples of assistance that will NOT be provided:

• Transportation on campus (e.g. a golf cart)
• Administering medical care

When a student experiences a temporary impairment, the student is encouraged to first work with the student’s instructors to find appropriate temporary assistance. The student should discuss the following with the instructors:

1. Limitations caused by the temporary impairment
2. The expected duration of the temporary impairment
3. How the temporary impairment impacts class participation
4. A plan to complete class requirements  

If a student finds it difficult to work with the instructors, the student may contact the CARE Team for guidance and support by submitting a request through the CARE Team web page. The CARE Team cannot guarantee that its participation will alter an instructor’s decision. Timely and open communication with instructors, the CARE Team, and other appropriate campus offices can often result in satisfactory solutions to the short-term issues caused by the temporary impairment. Additionally, providing documentation from your healthcare professional regarding your temporary impairment to your instructors or CARE Team may aid in processing your request. 

To request temporary assistance please submit a CARE Report. Under “Nature of this report”, choose Student of Concern (CARE Team).