Children with neurodisabilities and public policy: Universal design for function rather than diagnosis

In this chapter we examine neuroethical considerations for the application of neuroscience research in relation to law, policy, and their resource allocation implications for children with neurodisabilities. Here we will discuss the use of diagnosis as a central eligibility criterion for children with neurodisabilities to access publicly funded supports and services in Canada. As we will argue, using diagnosis as the gatekeeper for government funding and programming is not only an inflexible design approach, but it also risks an inequitable distribution of social benefits and supports. We recommend universal policy design that relies on engagement with people with lived experience throughout the process to enable a focus on functional abilities rather than a specific diagnosis. A universal approach allows for policy flexibility as research develops and respects the human rights of children with disabilities, in accordance with Canada's domestic and international human rights commitments.