Temporary Injuries and Conditions

A temporary condition may result from an acute injury, medical condition, hospitalization, etc. While most temporary conditions are considered transitory and minor—and therefore do not fall under the protections of disability law—the University seeks to provide support. Most short-term needs can be met through existing options or informal short-term arrangements.

For conditions with a longer duration that substantially limit a major life activity or major bodily function, temporary accommodations through the Office of Access & Opportunity: Disability Resources (ODR) may be needed. Examples include broken limbs, concussions, recovery from surgery, etc.

Pregnant individuals should review Pregnancy & Parenting for information on protections, resources, advocacy, and support.

Navigating Your Condition

  1. Discuss your condition with your medical provider to best understand the impact and anticipated duration.
  2. Determine what related needs or barriers you may encounter at Appalachian. Reviewing the considerations below may assist in identifying needs.
  3. Communicate directly with University officials (e.g., instructors or supervisors) as early as possible. Discuss duration and impact (lifting, walking, time to complete tasks, etc.) and identify related barriers. If informal arrangements are used, it is recommended that all parties document them.
  4. If needed, request accommodations through ODR using the applicable student request process.

Parking, Transportation & Navigating Campus

  • Allow additional time to navigate campus. Review campus maps to determine the best routes.
  • For mobility challenges, consider personal devices (motorized scooter, knee scooter, crutches) in consultation with a healthcare provider. Many find a knee scooter more effective than crutches. Potential vendors: Boone Drug Deerfield, Piedmont Medical Supply.
  • The University does not provide transportation services. Personal transportation and campus travel are the responsibility of each individual. Consider University Sustainability Ridesharing, carpooling, Uber/Lyft, or Appalcart (free public transportation with accessible buses and Paratransit).
  • App State Parking & Transportation may offer short-term permit options for use with an NC DMV Disability Placard. Consult a medical provider about eligibility for a temporary placard.

Attendance

Students

  • If short-term hospitalization is required, students may use Class Absence Notification through the Dean of Students.
  • Communicate with instructors to determine alternatives such as virtual attendance or alternate sections.
  • Ongoing absences may impact course completion and may require a medical course load reduction through Student Health Services or a withdrawal through the Registrar if needed.

Employees

  • Employees may consider telework options or applicable leave through Human Resources.

Assistive Technologies

  • Use accessibility features such as Text-to-Speech (reading) or Speech-to-Text (dictation).
  • Adjust screen tone and brightness to warmer, dimmer settings, or use blue-blocking glasses to reduce eyestrain.
  • Print materials (e.g., PowerPoints) in advance for easier use during class or meetings.

Academic Schedule

  • Some temporary conditions may significantly impact course completion and require withdrawal options.
  • For anticipated conditions (e.g., surgery recovery), adjust schedules for more time between classes or lighter course loads. Consult an academic advisor.
  • For unexpected conditions, consult an academic advisor about course drops or contact Student Health Services regarding course load reduction. The Registrar can assist with course drop processes.

Academic Tasks

  • Tests: Discuss options for missed or make-up exams. Ask whether lowest scores are dropped or tests can be rescheduled.
  • Test format: If writing or typing is affected, request alternate formats (typed responses, highlighted answers, etc.).
  • Time to complete tests: If additional time is needed, explore options such as testing during office hours, extended time, or computer use.
  • Course notes: Use document scanning apps or tools like OneNote. Consider recording lectures using apps such as AudioNote, Notability, or Google Docs.
  • Participation: Determine whether absences affect required participation and use remote options if available.

Classroom Setting

  • If experiencing light sensitivity (e.g., concussion), consider wearing a hat or sunglasses.
  • Evaluate seating or placement within the classroom.

Planning & Time Management

On-Campus Housing

  • Request room changes for accessibility through University Housing.
  • Develop a roommate agreement to support recovery needs.
  • Use tools such as noise-canceling headphones, earplugs, sleep masks, and screen glasses to create a supportive environment.

Resources

Section 504 & Temporary Conditions

Federal guidance: Section 504 FAQ (U.S. Department of Education) 

A temporary condition does not constitute a disability for purposes of Section 504 unless its severity results in a substantial limitation of one or more major life activities over an extended period. Determination must be made case by case, considering both duration and level of impact.

Under the ADA Amendments Act, an individual is not considered “regarded as” having a disability if the condition is transitory and minor. A transitory condition has an actual or expected duration of six months or less.