Health Literacy Part II: Language Access for the Hearing Impaired

In healthcare, hearing-impaired patients face significant communication barriers that can lead to poorer outcomes, increased medical costs, and reduced patient satisfaction. Effective strategies and legally mandated accommodation are essential to ensure these patients receive equitable, patient-centered care. This article serves as a resource for information on creating best practices regarding hearing-impaired patients.

Achieving Effective Communication 

Achieving effective communication with people who are hearing impaired can, in some situations, require the use of a sign language interpreter. Effective Communication with the Hearing Impaired supports the use of video remote interpreting. Video technology that facilitates clear communication with providers can increase patient confidence and satisfaction with their care. This also reduces the frustration and helplessness that many hearing-impaired patients experience in healthcare settings.

For more detailed information, please access the government site below: 

ADA Requirements: Effective Communication | ADA.gov

This section will provide information regarding limitations for entities required to provide aids and services to the hearing impaired.

In addition: 

Americans with Disabilities Act Title III Regulations | ADA.gov

Please refer to the area labeled: (c) Effective Communication

This section will provide you with information regarding to effective communication and what that means when choosing a method of communication for hearing impaired patients. Note: Please read the entire 36.303 section for a better understanding overall.

Note: If there is a loss of communication, it is the responsibility of the entity to have an individual available to fix the problem immediately and or have an interpreter onsite/accessible to assist with communication. The entity would need to have a backup plan in place to ensure there is no disruption in care/communication with the patient.  In addition, the video remote interpreting must meet the needs of the patient in terms of a dialect the patient understands.  For more information on health literacy and tools on how to improve the health literacy in your practice, contact the Risk Management department at Integris Group.