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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – Professionals in the medical field are confronted daily with challenges in effectively communicating with deaf or hard-of-hearing patients. It is essential to provide a customized service that meets the needs of all patients – including those of the Deaf Community.
Here are a few suggestions that will prepare medical professionals to effectively communicate with deaf patients:
Interpreting
Providing an interpreter, at no extra cost to the deaf patient or their insurance, is a requirement for all physicians per The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. If an interpreter is not on staff, the institution can usually contract one. If for some reason an interpreter cannot be on site, remote interpreting or video remote interpreting (VRI) is a recommended alternative. Video conferencing technology is often utilized by hospitals and various medical facilities through a high-speed internet connection to access an interpreter that is not at the facility.
When choosing an interpreter for engaging with deaf patients, be sure to select a company that specializes in sign language. Occasionally, hospitals contract with a translation service that claims to offer signing as a translation service, but there is an immense difference between “translating” a language and “interpreting” one. The discrepancy between the ability to ‘sign’ and the ability to ‘interpret’ sign language could easily be compared to the difference between an assistant and a doctor. Having a certified sign language interpreter that is highly skilled and experienced, and understands all of the in-and-out aspects of the language is indisputably necessary.
Communicating Effectively
Keep in mind that many people in the Deaf Community learn American Sign Language as their first language, prior to even English. A common misconception by medical staff is to assume that writing is an effective way of communication. This is not true. There are significant discrepancies between ASL and English; so significant that it could be compared to writing notes in English to a person who speaks Chinese. In order to provide the deaf patient with proper diagnosis, it is critical to have accurate and effective communication in the patient’s primary language. If medical facilities fail to do so, it could result in extensive liability.
Many people assume that deaf individuals have the ability to read lips. Some can, but it’s false to assume that all deaf people can, or that lip-reading is an effective method of communication. It’s proven that only about 40 percent of what is being said can be read on the lips – the probability is only that high if the deaf individual has thorough proficiency and understanding of the topic and vocabulary being used. To assist in providing cues and information to those who do not have lip reading ability, it is essential to remember to not speak too slowly or too quickly, not to over-exaggerate enunciation and do not speak while chewing gum. Do make sure that you are facing the patient and speaking in a well-lit (but not in front of a window). Also, bear in mind that facial hair around the mouth and speech impediments can interfere with the ability of lip reading. In summary, do not rely on lip reading as a primary mode of communication with deaf patients.
On top of the downfalls of written communication and lip reading, it is important to recognize the way physicians visually communicate with their deaf patients. The best way to gain a deaf individual’s attention is by simply tapping them on the shoulder or arm. Medical professionals must always face the patient while speaking, maintain eye contact and pay attention to their own body language. Each of these strategies can provide visual aids to the deaf patients – even when an interpreter is present. In the occasion that an interpreter is present, they will place themselves next to the medical professional so the deaf patient can glance between the two, gaining a full concept of what is being said with genuine tone and articulation.
Be proactive and remember that each deaf patient has a unique personal communication skill set and deserves a tailored strategy for effective communication. By implementing these suggestions, the Deaf Community will greatly appreciate the efforts put forth toward providing a more welcoming and impactful visit.
About the author:
Marilyn has received several awards from various local and national organizations recognizing her work and dedication to the deaf community.
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