The United States Foot and Ankle Society (USFAS) is committed to ensuring equal access and opportunity for all individuals, including those with disabilities. We are dedicated to providing an inclusive environment in all aspects of our operations, including our physical facilities, digital platforms, events, educational programs, and member services.
This policy reflects our commitment to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
All USFAS websites, mobile applications, and digital content
Physical facilities where USFAS conducts business or hosts events
All conferences, meetings, educational programs, and society events
Publications, communications, and educational materials
Member services and professional development opportunities
Employment practices and volunteer opportunities
3. Digital Accessibility
3.1 Website and Online Content
USFAS strives to ensure that all digital content is accessible to individuals using assistive technologies, including but not limited to screen readers, voice recognition software, and alternative input devices.
Our digital accessibility standards include:
Conformance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA guidelines
Keyboard navigation compatibility for all interactive elements
Alternative text for images and graphics
Properly structured headings and semantic markup
Sufficient color contrast ratios (minimum 4.5:1 for normal text)
Accessible forms with clear labels and error identification
Captions and transcripts for video and audio content
Accessible PDF documents with proper tagging and structure
3.2 Third-Party Digital Content
When USFAS utilizes third-party platforms or vendors for digital services, we will:
Evaluate accessibility features before selection
Request accessibility conformance documentation
Include accessibility requirements in vendor contracts
Work with vendors to address identified accessibility barriers
4. Event and Meeting Accessibility
4.1 Physical Accessibility
USFAS will select venues for conferences, meetings, and events that provide:
Accessible entrances, pathways, and restrooms
Wheelchair-accessible seating and presentation areas
Accessible registration and exhibit areas
Appropriate signage and wayfinding
Accessible transportation information
4.2 Communication Access
USFAS will provide reasonable accommodations for event participants, including:
Sign language interpreters upon advance request
Assistive listening devices
Materials in alternative formats (large print, electronic, Braille)
Captioning for video presentations
Adequate time for individuals requiring additional processing time
4.3 Accommodation Requests
Members and event participants should submit accommodation requests at least 30 days in advance when possible.
5. Publications and Educational Materials
USFAS is committed to providing accessible publications and educational materials:
Digital publications will conform to accessibility standards
Print materials will be available in alternative formats upon request
Educational videos will include captions and transcripts
Graphics and charts will include text descriptions
Complex medical diagrams will be accompanied by detailed descriptions
6. Member Services
All member services, including:
Membership applications and renewal processes
Access to member benefits and resources
Continuing education programs
Committee participation opportunities
Communication from the society
…will be designed and delivered in an accessible manner.
7. Employment and Volunteer Opportunities
USFAS provides equal employment and volunteer opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations throughout the application, interview, and employment or service process.
8. Feedback and Complaints
8.1 Reporting Accessibility Barriers
USFAS welcomes feedback regarding accessibility.
8.2 Response Process
Upon receiving an accessibility concern:
USFAS will acknowledge receipt within 5 business days
The concern will be evaluated and investigated
A response and action plan will be provided within 30 days
Interim accommodations will be offered when immediate resolution is not possible
9. Training and Awareness
USFAS will provide accessibility training to:
Staff members involved in digital content creation
Event planning personnel
Membership services staff
Leadership and board members
Training will cover accessibility best practices, use of accessibility tools, and procedures for responding to accommodation requests.
10. Ongoing Commitment
10.1 Regular Review
This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed to reflect:
Changes in accessibility standards and regulations
Advances in assistive technology
Feedback from members and stakeholders
Best practices in the field
10.2 Continuous Improvement
USFAS commits to:
Conducting regular accessibility audits of digital properties
Prioritizing and remediating identified accessibility barriers
Incorporating accessibility into all new projects and initiatives
Consulting with individuals with disabilities in accessibility planning
11. Resources and Support
USFAS has designated an Accessibility Coordinator responsible for:
Overseeing implementation of this policy
Coordinating accommodation requests
Managing accessibility complaints and concerns
Monitoring compliance with accessibility standards
Reporting on accessibility initiatives to leadership
12. Policy Compliance
All USFAS staff, volunteers, contractors, and vendors are expected to comply with this accessibility policy. Non-compliance may result in corrective action as appropriate.
