Students and Staff with Temporary Medical Conditions
Temporary medical conditions such as broken or sprained bones, infectious diseases, general surgery, non-complicated pregnancy or other common medical conditions are not regarded as disabilities. The degree of functional limitation and duration of the above-mentioned conditions, typically, does not cause enough impairment to qualify an individual as having a disability as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.
Disability Resources and Services does however recognize that temporary medical conditions can be problematic and therefore offers the following suggestions.
Parking
Students and staff of the University of Pittsburgh who desire designated handicap parking on campus must obtain a state issued Person with Disability/Severely Disabled Veteran Parking Placard by application through the commonwealth or the state in which their vehicle is registered. For Pennsylvania residents, the application for a permit can be found at the state Department of Motor Vehicles site. Individuals must meet the state's criteria to receive a temporary or permanent placard for accessible parking.
Handicapped parking (HP) spaces will be assigned to designated parking lots and garages based on availability. The cost of an HP space will be the same as the standard parking permit. Person with Disability/Severely Disabled Veteran Parking Placards will be honored as long as a valid University permit for that lot is also displayed. Contact the Parking Services Office at 412-624-4034 to arrange for handicap parking.
Metered parking spaces reserved for individuals with Person with Disability/Severely Disabled Veteran Parking Placard are available on a 'first come first serve' basis.
Transportation
The University of Pittsburgh operates a comprehensive bus and shuttle system.
Information on schedules and routes »
Disability Shuttle
If you have a temporary or permanent disability that affects your ability to independently move throughout the campus and your transportation needs cannot be otherwise accommodated with the University's bus and shuttle system, you may be eligible for rides on the Disability Shuttle. The shuttle can only transport individuals with-in the campus loop. Individuals with permanent disabilities are serviced first. Specific information is available regarding the Disability Shuttle.
Note: If the Disability Shuttle can not accommodate your requested ride, it is suggested to check the University Bus and Shuttle system schedule or make arrangements with family or friends. Information regarding taxi services can be found in the local yellow pages.
Attendance
The University of Pittsburgh's attendance policy is specific to the school or course in which you are enrolled. Consult with your instructor regarding his/her attendance policy. If your medical condition results in a significant number of absences you might consider resigning from the term. Instructors with specific attendance polices can hold you accountable for absences from class regardless of reason.
Resignation
Certain temporary medical conditions may necessitate resignation from an academic term.
Information on the resignation process »
Writing and Test Taking
If arm/hand movement is restricted and subsequently affects your ability to write (take notes) and/or to take tests Disability Resources and Services suggests that you inform your instructor of your temporary impairment, its expected duration and discuss alternative methods for completing examinations. Disability Resources and Services also suggests you ask a fellow classmate for a copy of lecture notes. If writing will be affected for an extended period of time, consider investing in a speech to text software program.
If you have additional questions or specific disability-related needs, contact the Director of DRS at 412-648-7890 or vanslyke@pitt.edu.