Diagnostic Medical Sonography Pregnancy Policy

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Purpose: 

This policy is designed to ensure that Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) students who are pregnant are supported, provided with appropriate accommodations, and protected under applicable legal guidelines, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, including pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions.

1. Policy Overview

The program recognizes that pregnancy is a temporary condition and aims to support pregnant students while ensuring their academic and clinical success. This policy provides guidelines for notifying the program, requesting accommodations, and ensuring student health and safety.

2. Legal Compliance

The program adheres to all applicable laws and regulations, including:

  • Title IX: Prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy and requires institutions to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant students.
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Applies in cases where pregnancy-related conditions qualify as a temporary disability.

3. Notification Process

3.1 Voluntary Disclosure: Students are not required to disclose their pregnancy. If students choose to disclose their pregnancy, they are encouraged to notify the DMS Program Director as early as possible to provide necessary support and ensure a safe learning environment.

3.2 Documented Disclosure: Students disclosing pregnancy will meet with the DMS Program Director and complete the DMS Disclosure of Pregnancy Form.

3.3 Privacy and Confidentiality: All information related to a student’s pregnancy will be treated confidentially.

4. Accommodations: Students seeking accommodations must meet with the ADA Coordinator.

5. Program Interruptions: Students may choose to take time off from program requirements. The following policies inform and guide student progression in the program:

  • Academic Leave of Absence Policy
  • Financial Aid Student Leave of Absence Policy
  • Medical Imaging Clinical Attendance Policy

6. Safety Guidelines

6.1 Clinical Environment: Pregnant students should, at minimum:

  • Wear appropriate protective equipment (e.g., lead aprons during procedures involving radiation).
  • Avoid exposure to harmful substances and ensure adherence to safety protocols at clinical sites.

6.2 Health Monitoring: Students are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider to assess their ability to continue with program activities, particularly in physically demanding or potentially hazardous environments.

7. Responsibilities

7.1 Student Responsibilities

  • Students choosing to disclose their pregnancy:
    • Notify the program of pregnancy and request accommodations as needed.
    • Comply with safety protocols and communicate concerns promptly.

7.2 Program Responsibilities

  • Provide a supportive and non-discriminatory environment.
  • Implement reasonable accommodations promptly.
  • Ensure that clinical sites adhere to safety protocols for pregnant students.

College and Program Resources

  • DMS Program Director
  • ADA Coordinator
  • Title IX Coordinator

Approved:______________________________________________________________________
Monika Bissell, DBA
President

Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program
Disclosure of Pregnancy

Instructions: Completion of this form is voluntary. The purpose of this form is to disclose pregnancy to the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program for the purpose of ensuring the health and safety of the student and their unborn child/children. This information will allow the program to provide guidance regarding clinical assignments, program requirements, and any necessary accommodations. Please read the following information carefully before completing the form.

Student Information:

Name: ________________________________________________

Student DOB: _________________________________________

Email Address: ________________________________________

Phone Number:________________________________________

Program Start Date:____________________________________

Clinical Site (if applicable):_____________________________

Pregnancy Disclosure:

Date of Disclosure: ____________________________________

Expected Due Date:____________________________________

Provider Name:________________________________________

Provider Contact Information:___________________________

Student’s Acknowledgment and Options:

  1. I understand that disclosure of pregnancy is voluntary and is intended to assist the program in supporting my health and safety during my education.
  2. I understand that I may elect to continue participating in all program activities, including clinical assignments, with or without accommodations.
    1. If accommodations are requested, I understand that I must meet with the ADA Coordinator to discuss options.
  3. I understand that I may choose to take a leave of absence from the program if necessary.
    1. If I choose this option, I will follow the program’s leave of absence policies and procedures.
  4. I understand that I can rescind this disclosure at any time by providing written notice to the program director.

Student’s Declaration: By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read and understood the information provided in this form. I voluntarily disclose my pregnancy to the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program and understand my options and responsibilities.

Student Signature:______________________________________________________ 
Date:_____________________________

Program Director Signature:_____________________________________________ 
Date:_____________________________

Program Use Only:

Notes or Follow-Up Actions:

Date

Academic Policies