Who determines if an inmate has a disability?

The determination of whether an inmate has a disability primarily falls on agency medical staff, as they possess the necessary training and qualifications to assess medical conditions and disabilities accurately. These professionals can evaluate the inmate's physical and mental health status through medical assessments, examinations, and considerations of any existing health records.

The role of medical staff is critical because they have a comprehensive understanding of various disabilities and health issues, along with the ability to diagnose and recommend accommodations as needed. Their assessments guide the facility in ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to support inmates with disabilities, thus complying with legal and ethical obligations related to their care.

Family members and correctional officers, while they may provide observations or reports regarding an inmate's condition, do not have the medical expertise required to make formal determinations about disabilities. The legal team would be more involved in matters of policy and rights rather than direct evaluation of physical or mental health conditions.