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From the

Presidents Desk:

From the Desk of Dr. Craig Escudé

Predict Mortality Using HRST’s Health Care Levels

Throughout my career, I’ve been guided by a single, unwavering belief: that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) deserve the same opportunity as anyone else to live healthy, fulfilling, and self-directed lives. That belief has shaped everything I do—and it continues to drive the work of IntellectAbility. 

I’ve seen what happens when care is delivered through a person-centered lens. When we move beyond checklists and diagnoses to see the whole person—their strengths, preferences, and humanity—we unlock something truly powerful. We don’t just improve health outcomes; we restore dignity, build confidence, and nurture connection. 

This space is where I share reflections, insights, and stories that come from years of experience in the field, from listening to people with IDD and the people who support them. My goal is simple: to encourage better understanding, spark meaningful dialogue, and help lead a broader shift toward care that transforms lives—not just systems. 

Thank you for being part of this mission. 

Dr. Craig Escudé, MD, FAAFP 
President, IntellectAbility 

Journal of Nursing Measurement

This study highlights the efficacy of the HRST in predicting mortality in a sample of 12,582 people with IDD. The researchers concluded that the "HRST's Health Care Level (HCLs) are predictive of mortality. Therefore, it can serve as a basis for establishing healthcare needs and determining nursing care acuity for people with IDD."

Download a copy of the study to learn more.

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Top Challenges in Supporting People with IDD with Dual Diagnosis

People with both intellectual disabilities and mental health conditions are described as being “dually diagnosed.”

Join Dr. Ben Margolis, a board-certified neuropsychiatrist, and Dr. Escudé as they discuss some of the challenges and important considerations when supporting people with “dual diagnosis.”

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