ABSTRACT
Health policies aimed at people with disabilities can be understood as an expression of the repeated processes of exclusion and silence, imposed by cultural and political relations. Understanding the different conceptual models and the words used to refer to this group is essential to change this perspective, as well as to improve epidemiological data on disability. The purpose of this essay is to discuss the relationship between theoretical models of disability, the multiple forms of denomination, the epidemiology of disability and its relationship with public policies. By understanding the terminology used to describe individuals with disabilities, by adopting linguistic similarities between the policy makers and implementers, society and people with disabilities themselves could assist in changing life perspectives by suggesting changes in public policies and in the form of care.
KEYWORDS
Health policy; Disability studies; Disabled persons