
Tips for communicating with Deaf patients
Communication barriers are the number one reason Deaf people have had poorer health compared to hearing people.
Booking an appointment
It actually starts with making an appointment. In some places, Deaf patients still have to walk into their surgery to book time with their doctor, because of the lack of SMS, email or online appointment systems.
Remote Consultations
An ordinary phone call is not an accessible medium for communicating with a Deaf patient. This includes holding consultations, sharing test results or confirming appointment details. According to the Accessible Information Standard, alternative communication channels must be arranged that meet the communication preferences of your patient. Alternative methods might include text message or email for notifications, or booking a BSL interpreter for remote consultations using a Video Relay Service (VRS).
BSL Health Access
If you do not already have a VRS provider for BSL interpreters, you can use BSL Health Access to call a Deaf patient using your phone, or for them to call you (this is generally the preferred option). It is free, on-demand, and available anywhere in the UK. Visit their website for more information specifically for health care providers about the service and how to connect.
Reception
Have a system to call people into the consulting room which doesn’t rely on shouting out their name.
Tips for communicating with Deaf patients
It’s vital that the surgery/hospital (not the patient) book an interpreter in advance of the patient’s appointment. This is a basic right for Deaf people and one that will ensure your patient has a clear understanding of their health and the information you are telling them.
To book an interpreter, visit the NRCPD website.

Support in the midst of the crisis
SignHealth has taken on new activities and services to ensure we can support the health and wellbeing of Deaf people under the shadow of a global pandemic.
Our Coronavirus ResponseWhy does SignHealth provide specialist services?
There are a number of gaps in service provisions that can significantly impact the health and wellbeing of Deaf people. We provide psychological therapy, domestic abuse support, advocacy, outreach and residential services to support Deaf people who would otherwise struggle due to communication barriers.
We are working to improve the health and wellbeing of Deaf people. Please consider donating today.
