Kiley McLean

I am a postdoctoral research fellow, specializing in health equity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). With a Ph.D. in Social Welfare from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I address health disparities among autistic adults through my roles as a researcher, educator, and clinician. My work fosters inclusive research and teaching practices that prioritize diverse voices and perspectives. I am dedicated to advancing social justice in healthcare and mentoring future leaders committed to equity. I have been a lecturer in social work and developmental disabilities and serve as the policy preceptor at the Waisman Center LEND program.

My research focuses on advancing health equity for autistic adults and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) through community-based, qualitative, and quantitative methods. I emphasize the inclusion of marginalized voices, particularly non- and minimally speaking autistic adults, in shaping healthcare research and policy. As a postdoctoral research fellow, I collaborate across disciplines and with community stakeholders to inform inclusive health practices and policies. My research aims to create more equitable healthcare systems by identifying systemic barriers and developing innovative methodologies that promote accessibility and responsiveness to the needs of diverse populations.

IDS Faculty Supervisor: Lauren Bishop

Research Areas: Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD), I/DD across the lifespan, health and healthcare equity, physical and mental health disparities, disparities in prevalence of disability and access to quality care

Publications:

McLean, K. J., Haas, M., Koenig, J., Horvath, M., Vigil, M., Werner, N. E., & Bishop, L. (2024) I’m dealing with a health care system that doesn’t get it: Barriers and facilitators to inclusive healthcare for autistic adults. Autism, 13623613241236380.

McLean, K.J. & Bishop, L. (2024). Chronic Health Conditions among Adults with I/DD in a State Medicaid System. American Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 10.1352/1944-7558-129.5.331.