A study identified health occupations education programs currently offered to handicapped students and health occupations positions now occupied by handicapped employees throughout the state of Kentucky. In addition, the study allowed for assessment of respondent's attitudes toward educating and working with handicapped individuals. Of 1649 teachers and health occupations practitioners receiving project-developed questionnaires, 87 teachers and 297 practitioners completed surveys. Included among those areas examined were the following: teacher/practitioner education and employment background, health occupations programs/positions currently offered to/occupied by handicapped individuals; positions most frequently applied for/accepted by/filled by handicapped individuals; areas in which individuals with specific handicaps can be expected to compete successfully; and modifications that would allow handicapped students to compete on an equal basis with non-handicapped individuals. Teacher and practitioner responses indicated that the disadvantaged and handicapped are currently offered education and employment in all health occupations areas primarily at basic entry levels. In addition, most of these individuals apply for low or entry-level positions. Because both teacher and practitioner responses indicated a lack of interest and awareness of the difficulties of the handicapped, project staff recommended a strong program in education to help change the attitudes of health personnel. (MN)