Which is the most effective way to communicate with a person who has hearing loss?
Communication barriers are the number one reason Deaf people have had poorer health compared to hearing people. Show
Three examples of poor access impacting health and wasting resourcesBooking an appointmentIt actually starts with making an appointment. In some places, Deaf patients still have to walk into their surgery to book time with their doctor, because of the lack of SMS, email or online appointment systems. Remote ConsultationsAn ordinary phone call is not an accessible medium for communicating with a Deaf patient. This includes holding consultations, sharing test results or confirming appointment details. According to the Accessible Information Standard, alternative communication channels must be arranged that meet the communication preferences of your patient. Alternative methods might include text message or email for notifications, or booking a BSL interpreter for remote consultations using a Video Relay Service (VRS). ReceptionHave a system to call people into the consulting room which doesn’t rely on shouting out their name. 12 Tips for communicating with Deaf patients
It’s vital that the surgery/hospital (not the patient) book an interpreter in advance of the patient’s appointment. This is a basic right for Deaf people and one that will ensure your patient has a clear understanding of their health and the information you are telling them. To book an interpreter, visit the NRCPD website. Review of the NHS Accessible Information StandardUrgent priorities for change, informed by patients’ lived experience and NHS professionals. Report Related reading:Why does SignHealth provide specialist services?There are a number of gaps in service provisions that can significantly impact the health and wellbeing of Deaf people. We provide psychological therapy, domestic abuse support, advocacy, outreach and residential services to support Deaf people who would otherwise struggle due to communication barriers. We are working to improve the health and wellbeing of Deaf people. Please consider donating today. Cookies Policy Our website uses cookies to make things simpler. You can read more about our cookie policy and change your browser settings at any time. ACCEPT What are the most common uses or methods of communication of a person with hearing disabilities?Deaf people have two main ways of communicating with others – lip reading and sign language. Learn more about these two forms of communication below. Deaf people may not be able to hear what you're saying, but that doesn't mean they can't understand you.
What communication method is ideal for the deaf to communicate?American Sign Language (ASL) – A fully developed, autonomous, natural language with a unique grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and cultural heritage; the gestures, visual components, and structures of which are neither derived from English, nor a simplified version of English.
|