Resolving Problems
It is fair to say that even with the best efforts of everyone involved with your service delivery plans at UCSF, a problem may occur. If this should happen, we strongly encourage you to let SDS know as soon as possible so that we can work together to solve the problem as quickly as possible.
Occasionally a problem arises because of a misunderstanding or miscommunication; clarification can be a quick and effective solution. SDS can help with suggestions on how to resolve problems you may have with your service providers, professors or departments. It is best to discuss the issue with the person involved first, then go to the person's supervisor or department chair, if you have not arrived at a satisfactory resolution.
If SDS is part of the problem, we want to know that, too. Should SDS be unable to assist in resolving a problem, we can refer you to other on-campus or off-campus resources.
The Americans with Disabilities Act requires the University to adopt and publish procedures to resolve problems regarding access to the educational program for persons with disabilities. An individual who believes he or she has been discriminated against on the basis of disability can exercise any of the options below.
SDS recommends the following progression as the most efficient way of dealing with issues, however, the recommended progression does not prohibit a student from starting anywhere he or she is most comfortable:
- Discuss with the person in charge of the program in question.
- Discuss with Terry Smith, SDS Director. (415) 476-6595 or terry.smith@ucsf.edu
- Discuss with Eric Koenig, OSL Executive Director, if the issue is regarding SDS or any other department on campus. (415) 476-4318 (voice/tty)
- Discuss with the Problem Resolution Center. (415) 502-1082
- Discuss with the appropriate Dean or Associate Dean
- Discuss with 504 and ADA Compliance Officer, Michael Adams. (415) 476-4753
- Seek resolution through the Office of Civil Rights of the Federal Department of Education. (415) 486-5555, (877) 521-2172 tty, ocr.sanfrancisco@ed.gov
- Seek resolution through private
legal means.
The University is available to assist you in resolving conflicts by informal means. You may exercise any of the options above at any time.
Throughout any of these procedures you may expect to be treated with respect,
receive a timely response, not suffer from any form of retaliation, and have
your issues dealt with in a confidential manner, if so requested. The University
expects from you that you bring up any problems early, give clear and detailed
information, and be respectful of those people who are working with you.
If you wish to know more about your rights as a disabled person under Federal
and State law and University policy, SDS can refer you to the appropriate
entity. Retaliation in any form against persons who file complaints is prohibited
by disability-related law and University policy.
UCSF developed this information in accordance with these references: Public Law 101-336; the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA); Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and the University of California Policies Applying to Campus Activities, Organizations and Students, Section 140.00.