Learn on your own

In the realm of healthcare, effective communication is paramount. Clear and unimpeded communication between patients and healthcare providers is not only essential but often a matter of life and death. For Deaf individuals, this critical need is magnified, as their unique communication preferences and cultural nuances must be accommodated.

Consider this scenario: Carol, a Deaf patient, walks into a Canadian hospital with her mother, looking visibly anxious. Carol relies on American Sign Language (ASL) as her primary mode of communication. She has an important medical appointment, but the doctor assigned to her speaks a different English dialect. Carol’s interpreter, hailing from Texas uses regional signs that differs from Canada. The resulting miscommunication leads to misunderstandings and leaves both Carol and her doctor frustrated and concerned.