Monaco’s Princess Grace Hospital Centre (CHPG) has launched a major initiative aimed at improving access to care for people with disabilities, reinforcing its commitment to inclusion and dignity in healthcare.
Determined to address the unique challenges faced by disabled patients, the CHPG has established a multidisciplinary task force uniting doctors, nurses, administrative staff, hospital management and patient representatives. The group is spearheaded by Dr Valérie Bernard, Head of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the hospital’s designated disability officer, alongside Damien Aimé, Deputy Director at Cap Fleuri.
This action forms part of Monaco’s broader national policy known as Handipact, introduced by the Princely Government in December 2023, which seeks to advance the inclusion of people with disabilities across all sectors.
After conducting a detailed audit of current accessibility and patient support structures at the hospital, the working group has already delivered several tangible improvements. A dedicated phone line and online form have been created to allow patients to communicate their specific needs before arriving at the hospital. Bespoke care plans are now developed individually, ensuring a more personalised and respectful experience. Staff across the hospital have received “reflex sheets” offering practical guidance on how to support patients with different types of disabilities, and a new charter has been adopted, formally outlining the hospital’s obligations to provide inclusive and compassionate care.
The Princely Government praised the CHPG’s efforts, calling them a vital step towards building a more open, attentive and fair healthcare system. These reforms not only mark meaningful progress in day-to-day practice, but also reflect a long-term commitment to making the Principality more inclusive for all its residents.
