COMMUNICATION ACCESS & HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS
One thing that we can all agree upon is the fact that it is better to be prepared than not. Especially during times when many places are experiencing sudden changes and having to change plans on the fly, it is important to be prepared for all foreseeable circumstances. Some things, obviously, cannot be prepared for beforehand. Other things, like interacting with the Deaf community can be planned for well in advance and instead of causing confusion can become a simple part the routine of any health care provider
When a Deaf patient schedules an appointment with a physician, arrives at an urgent care facility, or is admitted to the hospital, there are certain rights they have. The Deaf community, just like your hearing patients, have the right to participate in their care. Often, this is not adequately provided for Deaf patients in the same way that it is for others. This is unfortunate, because research has shown that effective communication in hospital settings results in may positive outcomes such as shorter lengths of stay (LOS), fewer readmissions, fewer ER visits, and better healthcare outcomes. Obviously, this is better for all involved parties! So, what are some things you can do to ensure the best outcome for your Deaf patients in whatever setting you find yourself in? Here are a few tips to consider:
Establish an effective communication policy. Ask the Deaf patient what their communication needs are and document that in their chart. Also, document what services were provided and any reason why they were declined by the patient.
Provide a qualified sign language interpreter. Seek someone who has experience interpreting in the medical field. Remember to speak to your patient in the first person even if they are looking at the interpreter.
Utilize visual medical aids. Diagrams and models can be very helpful in communicating medical information as well as providing online resources for your Deaf patients to better participate in their care.
For more information on what you can do to better provide care for your Deaf patients and to facilitate a positive and inclusive environment, please review the National Association of the Deaf’s (NAD) information which can be found below. Deaf Access has been providing highly qualified interpreting services in north Alabama for the past 25 years. If you have any questions about this information or would like to schedule an interpreter, please contact us here!