As a healthcare professional, there are simple steps you can take to communicate with people who are deaf or have hearing loss.
Accessible communication means that patients can give informed consent and understand what’s happening at every stage – from booking an appointment to making decisions about treatment.
This guide can be used by clinicians, practice managers, administrative staff, and anyone else who interacts with patients in your service.
Why accessible communication matters
RNID storyteller Caitlin shares her experiences of accessing healthcare as a deaf patient, and describes the impact that inaccessible communication can have.
Do
- ask about communication needs
- book communication support in advance
- check that the patient understands
Don’t
- wait for patients to tell you their needs
- rely on family or friends to interpret
- rush patients who have communication needs