Monaco's CHPG Redefines Healthcare Accessibility for Disabled Individuals
A groundbreaking charter introduces inclusive medical practices at the Princess Grace Hospital Center.
The Princess Grace Hospital Center (CHPG) in Monaco has implemented a transformative approach to healthcare for individuals with disabilities through the establishment of a pioneering charter focused on inclusive medical excellence.
This initiative is led by Dr. Valérie Bernard, the head of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, along with Damien Aime, management attaché at Cap Fleuri.
A multidisciplinary working group comprising medical professionals, caregivers, administrative staff, and user representatives has been organized to develop tailored healthcare services for patients with disabilities.
This effort aligns with Monaco’s national Handipact policy, launched in December 2023, marking the government's commitment to creating an accessible environment for all citizens.
The CHPG has taken concrete measures to implement this vision, including:
- A unique phone number (+377 97 98 82 88) and a digital form designed to address specific patient needs before they arrive at the hospital.
- Custom care pathways tailored to each patient, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach.
- Behavioral guidance 'reference sheets' to assist all staff in achieving relational excellence in care.
- A formalized charter of welcome, signifying a commitment to humanity and respect in patient interactions.
The new philosophy at CHPG emphasizes that every detail matters, from adjusting speaking height for wheelchair users to clear communication strategies for the hearing impaired, and allowing guide dogs in all public areas.
This initiative not only focuses on architectural adaptations but also represents a significant cultural shift in how healthcare providers engage with patients, fostering an environment where patient self-esteem is recognized as a vital aspect of therapeutic care.
The Princely Government acknowledges these developments as initial steps toward ongoing discourse concerning healthcare accessibility.
The charter is viewed not merely as a milestone, but rather as the foundation for aspiring towards a princely state where medical excellence is intertwined with universal inclusivity.