Problem:
Many COVID-19 public health websites across the United States fail to meet essential accessibility standards, making it difficult for individuals with disabilities to access critical health information. Noncompliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.0) and Section 508c standards creates significant barriers, particularly during public health emergencies when timely and clear communication is crucial.
Our approach:
To address this issue, we evaluated the accessibility and usability of these websites by examining their adherence to WCAG 2.0 standards at Levels A, AA, and AAA, as well as Section 508c compliance. The research included a detailed analysis of visible accessibility features such as text resizing options, language availability, contrast settings, and AI-based accessibility modules. Using this data, we developed an Accessibility Dashboard that highlights areas of improvement and provides actionable insights for enhancing inclusivity and usability. This approach aims to ensure equal access to public health resources and foster more inclusive online communication.
Publications:
Work is ongoing. Publications are forthcoming.