Special Needs Registries for Individuals With Disabilities

Not all interactions between police officers and individuals with disabilities end poorly, but some do. This can happen when a police officer isn’t aware of the person’s disabilities and special needs. Neither party in such an interaction means any harm, but harm sometimes occurs.

Some behavioral traits caused by a person’s medical condition can be interpreted as combative by law enforcement officers. For this reason, registries for individuals with disabilities, also known as special needs registries, are becoming increasingly available across the United States. There is even a National Special Needs Registry, soon to be referred to as the Public Safety Alliance for Individuals with Disabilities.

What Are Special Needs Registries?

Special needs registries are databases managed by local law enforcement agencies, fire departments, emergency medical services, or municipalities. They allow individuals with disabilities, or their caregivers, to provide essential information that can be used to inform first responders about a person’s needs, behaviors, communication challenges, and medical conditions. Registration is typically voluntary, and individuals or families must consent to share their information. The information provided may include:

• The name, age, and address of the individual
• Emergency contact information
• Description of the disability or medical condition, e.g., autism, dementia, mobility impairment, or sensory processing disorder
• Preferred methods of communication
• Potential triggers or behavioral responses, such as sensitivity to lights or loud noises
• Strategies or tools that may help calm or assist the person during an interaction

How Special Needs Registries Work

To enroll in a special needs registry, individuals or caregivers usually complete a form online or in person. Once the information is processed, it is securely stored in a database that can be accessed by first responders during an emergency. For example, if there is a call for assistance at an address, dispatchers can notify responding officers or paramedics of any special considerations based on the information in the registry.

Some jurisdictions have systems that automatically alert first responders when they are dispatched to an address associated with a registered individual. Others may require personnel to check the database manually. If you or your loved one have enrolled in a special needs registry, be sure to keep the registry updated about any changes to your information so that their database remains accurate.

Benefits of Special Needs Registries

Some benefits of using a registry for individuals with disabilities include:

• Improved Safety for Individuals with Disabilities. Special needs registries can help prevent confusion or unnecessary escalations. For example, if an officer encounters a person who has difficulty speaking or understanding instructions, knowing that they have a communication disorder or intellectual disability can guide the officer to approach the situation with greater patience and care.
• Better Communication and Interaction. Registries can include preferred methods of communication, such as the use of visual aids or specific keywords. This information helps first responders understand how best to communicate and de-escalate situations. For example, some people with autism who are nonverbal may rely on sign language or communication devices, and knowing this in advance allows responders to prepare accordingly.
• Faster and More Efficient Emergency Response. In medical emergencies, having information about a person’s health conditions, allergies, and medications can save precious time. Paramedics can make more informed decisions about care, leading to better outcomes. For individuals experiencing a cognitive impairment, such as dementia, registries can also help in quickly identifying them if they are found wandering, which is a common issue with cognitive impairments.
• Peace of Mind for Families and Caregivers. Knowing that first responders have access to information about their loved one’s needs can provide families with reassurance. It helps reduce the anxiety that families often feel about interactions between their loved ones and police officers, especially if their loved one has behaviors that may be misunderstood. Families can also be more confident that, in the event of an emergency, responders will have the information they need to provide appropriate care.

Privacy and Security Considerations

Because special needs registries involve sharing personal and medical information, privacy and security are significant concerns. Agencies managing these registries often implement strict measures to protect the data from unauthorized access. Participants are encouraged to inquire about how their information will be used, who will have access to it, and what measures are in place to keep it secure.

How to Register

Registration processes vary by location. Individuals or caregivers can typically register through local police department websites, fire department sites, or other community resources. The form will ask for basic information about the individual, including details on any disabilities, medical conditions, or needs that first responders should be aware of. Some registries also provide identification cards or window stickers, which can help alert first responders to check the registry if they encounter the person in a vehicle or at their home.

Learn More About Resources for Individuals With Disabilities

Contact your local police department or the emergency management officials in your municipality to find out if a registry for individuals with disabilities is available in your community. You can also use the National Special Needs Registry to locate the registry closest to you.

To learn more about rights of individuals with disabilities, you can refer to the Americans with Disabilities Act and talk with an experienced special needs planner near you. They can discuss your specific situation and potential options with you. For additional reading on topics related to special needs planning, check out the following articles:

• 5 Helpful Tips for Caregivers of Loved Ones With Special Needs
• Independent Living for People With Disabilities
• Housing Considerations for Your Child With Special Needs
• 988 Hotline in Place to Help Support Those at Risk for Suicide or Mental Health Crises
• Home Ownership for People With Disabilities