Access to healthcare is a fundamental right for everyone.
But for Deaf and hard of hearing patients, navigating the healthcare system can be fraught with challenges. Whether it’s attending a GP appointment, visiting the hospital or understanding medical advice, communication barriers can leave patients feeling frustrated, excluded, and even misunderstood.
Thankfully, a range of support services and accommodations are available to ensure that Deaf and hard of hearing individuals receive the same level of care and understanding as hearing patients.
Seven support services available to the Deaf community
Navigating the healthcare system as a Deaf or hard of hearing patient can be challenging. But the good news is, there are many support services and accommodations available to help Deaf and hard of hearing patients access healthcare with confidence and clarity, including:
British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters
For many Deaf patients, British Sign Language (BSL) is their first or preferred language and accessing medical information in BSL is crucial to ensuring effective communication. In healthcare settings, BSL interpreters play a vital role in bridging the gap between medical professionals and Deaf patients.
Hospitals, GP surgeries and other healthcare providers can arrange for BSL interpreters to be present during appointments, consultations and medical procedures. This ensures patients can understand their diagnosis, treatment options and any other important information.
Many healthcare providers have access to in-person interpreters, but if this isn’t possible, remote video interpreting services can also be used. It’s important for Deaf patients to request an interpreter in advance, if possible, to ensure one is available when needed.
Video Relay Services (VRS)
Video Relay Services (VRS), like InterpretersLive!, allow Deaf patients to communicate with healthcare providers using a BSL interpreter through a video call. This service can be particularly useful for telephone consultations, making it easier for Deaf patients to book appointments, request prescriptions or discuss non-emergency concerns with their doctor.
With VRS, a Deaf patient can contact their healthcare provider via a video link.
The interpreter relays the conversation in real-time between the patient and the healthcare professional, ensuring that both parties understand each other clearly.
Text relay and SMS services
For patients who are hard of hearing or who prefer to communicate via text, Text Relay and SMS services can provide an alternative way to interact with healthcare providers. Text Relay services allow patients to type messages, which are then relayed to a hearing person by an operator, and vice versa.
Additionally, some GP surgeries and hospitals offer SMS appointment booking and reminders, making it easier for hard of hearing patients to manage their healthcare without relying on phone calls. Many pharmacies and healthcare providers also use SMS to provide important updates, such as prescription readiness or test results.
Speech-to-text and live transcription services
Speech-to-text services can provide real-time transcription of spoken language into text, which can then be read by Deaf and hard of hearing patients during medical appointments. This can be especially helpful in situations where BSL interpreters are not available or when patients prefer to receive information in written form rather than through sign language.
Some healthcare providers offer live transcription services, either in-person or remotely, via apps or devices that convert speech into text. Patients who rely on these services should inform their healthcare provider in advance to ensure the necessary equipment or software is available during their visit.
Accessible health information in BSL
Understanding medical information is critical, but written leaflets, instructions or prescriptions aren’t always suitable for Deaf patients. To address this, many healthcare providers now offer health information in BSL, including video guides and BSL-translated materials on their websites.
For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the NHS provided key public health advice, vaccination information and safety guidelines in BSL. Similarly, many organisations provide video explanations of common medical procedures, health conditions and medication instructions to ensure that Deaf patients have access to the information they need in a format they can understand.
Patient advocacy and support organisations
Deaf and hard of hearing patients are not alone in navigating the healthcare system. A variety of advocacy groups and organisations exist to provide advice, support and resources.
These groups can assist with arranging interpreters, making complaints or ensuring that healthcare providers meet their legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010, which mandates that reasonable adjustments are made for disabled patients.
Deaf Awareness Training for healthcare professionals
Another vital component of improving access for Deaf and hard of hearing patients is ensuring that healthcare professionals receive the proper training in Deaf awareness and communication.
Many healthcare providers now offer Deaf Awareness Training to their staff, equipping them with the skills to communicate effectively with Deaf and hard of hearing patients. This training includes how to book interpreters, how to use assistive technology and how to communicate respectfully and clearly.
Healthcare professionals who have undergone Deaf awareness training are better able to create a welcoming environment where Deaf patients feel valued and understood, resulting in better health outcomes and a more inclusive experience overall.
How can Sign Solutions help?
We provide BSL interpreting and translation services, plus expert consultancy to help ensure your organisation is as accessible as possible to Deaf patients and service users.
All the skilled BSL interpreters we work with are DBS-checked and NRCPD-registered and can provide a high-quality service to Deaf people across the UK. We can also provide a range of accredited communications professionals for Deaf, Deafblind and hard of hearing users.
To find out more and for expert advice on which type of communication support will meet your needs, give us a call on 0843 178 0773, email bookings@signsolutions.uk.com or contact us via a BSL video interpreter.
