Policy on Animals in Clinical Facilities of Amerimmune Clinic in McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, and Rockville MD

Amerimmune Clinic has established a policy to ensure the safety of all patients by limiting the presence of animals in our facilities. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, and Rockville MD.

Policy on Animals in Clinical Facilities

1. Purpose

This policy establishes clear guidelines for the presence of animals in Amerimmune facilities. Given the unique vulnerability of our patient population to environmental triggers, including animal dander, it is essential to ensure patient safety while also complying with federal laws protecting individuals with disabilities.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all Amerimmune clinical locations, including waiting areas, exam rooms, infusion suites, and administrative spaces.

3. Policy Statement

Amerimmune welcomes ADA-defined service animals that are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities.

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs), comfort animals, therapy animals, and pets are not permitted in Amerimmune facilities due to the significant risk of triggering allergic or asthmatic reactions among patients.

Consistent with the ADA, service animals may only be excluded if:

– The animal is out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it, or
– The animal is not housebroken, or
– The presence of the animal would pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other patients.

4. Definitions

• Service Animal: As defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a dog (or miniature horse) that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability.

• Emotional Support Animal (ESA): An animal that provides comfort or emotional support but is not trained to perform specific tasks for a disability. ESAs are not considered service animals under the ADA.