Accessibility Statement

1. Purpose and Commitment

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:

  1. USFAS will acknowledge receipt within 5 business days
  2. The concern will be evaluated and investigated
  3. A response and action plan will be provided within 30 days
  4. 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.

13. Additional Information

For information about: