The Future of Disability in America: Review of the Institute of Medicine Report

The Institute of Medicine report on the Future of Disability in America documented some progress in understanding and diminishing the effects of disability caused by illness. However, it found little evidence of effective efforts to stem the rising tide of disability among younger populations. This dramatic growth in youth disability will affect the health and well-being of large numbers of young people and will lead to lower employment rates with huge increases in public expenditures for health care and economic support programs. Primary prevention of this rapid growth in disability as well as efforts to decrease the progress from chronic condition to disability are of paramount importance. The report, although more limited in specific recommendations than hoped for, provides critical guidance to a desperately needed research and policy agenda.