Working with a Deaf of Hard of Hearing Patient
Did You Know?
- If a Deaf person requests an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, by law (American Disabilities Act), the clinic is required to provide one
There are two ways you can work with an interpreter, in-person or video relay interpreter (VRI, also known as “iPad interpreter”). VRI can become blurry or freeze, and result in miscommunication, so in-person is usually preferred by Deaf people
ASL is not visual English. ASL is a different language. A Deaf person’s comprehension of written English may be limited
Set up the Visit
Get a qualified ASL interpreter based on patient preference
Allow for longer appointments to support interpretation
Schedule the ASL interpreter when the patient appointment is made
Request an ASL interpreter that knows the signs for the medical terminology relevant to the visit
If you find success with an interpreter, request them for future visits
If using VRI, learn how to use it and test the internet connection prior to the visit
Prioritize the Deaf Patient
- Create an electronic health record note indicating the Deaf patient needs:
- ASL interpreters
- A tap on the shoulder in the waiting room, instead of calling their name
- Ensure the Deaf person can adequately see the interpreter
- Look at the Deaf patient, not the interpreter
- Ensure you have the Deaf patient’s attention before talking
- Avoid covering your mouth with hands, paper or non-clear mask
- Pause between concepts to allow for processing
- Use teach-back techniques
- Ask if the pace is okay
Work with the ASL Interpreter
Briefly orient the ASL interpreter to the purpose and agenda for the visit
The Deaf patient and ASL interpreter may need a “warm up” discussion so the interpreter can learn the patient’s signs and health literacy level. This discussion can happen in the waiting room
The ASL interpreter facilitates both language and cultural understanding. If hands are up, the interpreter and Deaf patient are communicating. Wait for hands to come down before adding more information
Talk directly to the patient. Don’t say to the interpreter, “tell the patient….”