The need for Healthy Athletes is great. Despite a mistaken belief that people with intellectual disabilities receive the same or better health care than others, they typically receive sub-standard care, or virtually no health care at all. People with intellectual disabilities have poorer health, more specialized health care needs, and greater difficulty accessing health care services and doctors compared to the general population.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), despite the severe need and higher health risk, people with intellectual disabilities are denied health services, community interventions, and there is a lack of targeted interventions and programs for the population. Health care professionals who volunteer with Special Olympics have found that Special Olympics athletes are at increased risk of secondary health issues:

The key objectives of Special Olympics Healthy Athletes are:

• Improve access and health care for Special Olympics athletes at event-based health screenings and make referrals to local health practitioners when appropriate.
• Train health care professionals and students in the health professions about the needs and care of people with intellectual disabilities.
• Collect, analyze and disseminate data on the health status and needs of people with intellectual disabilities.
• Advocate for improved health policies and programs for person with intellectual disabilities.

The success of Special Olympics Healthy Athletes events depends on partnering. Special Olympics program staff support the work of trained Healthy Athletes volunteers to provide even based health opportunities for athletes. Event managers create an environment for positive interaction between health care professionals, other volunteers, and Special Olympics athletes and their families. Products, equipment and cash donations from local, national and international companies help to support the program. Financial support of governmental and philanthropic sponsors helps the program grow. Support of the volunteer opportunities offered by Special Olympics Healthy Athletes provides ongoing community network for improved access to health care for Special Olympics athletes — creating a legacy of care.