You may be surprised to learn that the Deaf community perceives deafness as an essential part of its identity—not as a defect in need of correction. For them, hearing loss is not an obstacle or a “problem” to be solved, but rather a natural condition they have lived with since birth, within a community that has adapted to deafness.
In this issue, we aim to give healthcare practitioners an understanding of the importance of engaging with this community in ways that promote better health outcomes. Research shows that deaf individuals experience worse health outcomes compared to hearing individuals, largely due to communication and language barriers in medical settings.
When healthcare providers are unable to communicate effectively with patients, important information may be lost and patient comprehension impaired. Conversely, studies indicate that improving communication access leads to better use of preventive care, higher patient satisfaction, and improved overall health outcomes for deaf patients.
Many deaf individuals primarily communicate through sign language, a language with its own grammar and unique structures, distinct from spoken or written languages. A recent Saudi study revealed that healthcare practitioners recognize the importance of having basic knowledge of sign language in order to communicate with deaf patients—something that has a direct impact on quality of care and patient safety. However, the same study showed that only 6% of healthcare practitioners had received formal training in sign language.
It is also important to note that not all deaf or hard-of-hearing patients are alike. They differ in their levels of hearing, their ability to lip-read or speak, and their preferred method of communication. For example, one patient may be fluent in sign language and never use speech, while another may prefer written communication, or may retain some hearing with the aid of devices.
Therefore, when interacting with such patients, it is essential to ask them about their preferred method of communication. This not only facilitates understanding but also demonstrates respect for the patient as a member of the Deaf community. By recognizing these personal preferences and the broader cultural perspective of the Deaf, healthcare practitioners can avoid miscommunication and deliver more patient-centered care.
Different Communication Strategies
Arranging for professional sign language interpreters with knowledge of medical terminology is crucial. If no interpreter is available, communicating with a close family member may be an option. However, in such cases, healthcare providers must remember to speak directly to the patient and maintain eye contact, not with the interpreter or relative.
As a healthcare provider, you should address the patient directly and use the first person as you normally would. This keeps the patient engaged, respects them as the decision-maker in their own care, and prevents them from being sidelined as a bystander to the interpreter or family member. Such body language builds rapport and allows the patient to pick up on facial cues.
Similarly, if you need to re-enter the room or resume the conversation after a pause, make sure the patient is looking at you. Never assume that a deaf person will hear you—always establish eye contact before speaking.
When facing the patient, ensure your face is clearly visible, since many deaf or hard-of-hearing patients rely on lip-reading and visual cues. Conduct conversations in well-lit areas where facial features, lips, and hand movements can be clearly seen. Avoid sitting directly in front of bright light sources or windows, as this can distract or obscure visibility.
Always keep your mouth visible. If you are wearing a mask and it is possible to remove it safely during the interaction, do so—or use a transparent mask to ensure lip visibility. Do not cover your mouth with your hands, pens, or medical reports while speaking.
Even Gestures
An additional point of sensitivity: some people mistakenly treat deaf patients as if they need to be taught, exaggerating their speech or raising their voices unnaturally, or using exaggerated gestures. This approach is incorrect and may embarrass or confuse patients, hindering communication.
The solution is to speak clearly, at a natural pace and tone. Do not shout or over-enunciate. Speaking louder will not improve patient comprehension and, in fact, may distort sounds for those using hearing aids.
Instead, simplify concepts as much as possible, avoid specialized medical jargon, and pause briefly between key points to allow for interpretation and understanding. If a patient uses a hearing aid, remember that such devices amplify all sounds, so minimize background noise and speak in a clear, moderate tone to avoid overwhelming them.
If technical terms must be introduced, take the time to explain them in simple, everyday language. Short sentences also help clarify meaning. Remember, for many deaf people, Arabic—whether written or spoken—is a second language, while sign language is their first. Thus, clarity and simplicity are essential to ensuring comprehension.
Non-verbal communication (gestures) is also invaluable. Point to body parts when discussing them—for example, if you say “liver,” gesture toward your right side. If you are discussing an injection, indicate the site on the arm.
Everything Matters
These considerations extend to things you might otherwise take for granted. Visual distractions such as excessive movement or clutter in the background can make it difficult for a deaf patient to follow lip-reading or sign language. If multiple people are in the room, take turns speaking one at a time, avoiding interruptions.
Deaf individuals cannot follow several speakers simultaneously. A clear turn-taking system, with polite gestures to indicate who is speaking, helps the patient follow the conversation. Always ensure the patient is looking at the next speaker before they begin talking.
Despite best efforts, misunderstandings may still occur. For this reason, it is essential to confirm patient comprehension repeatedly. Avoid closed questions like “Do you understand?”—the patient may nod politely out of courtesy. Instead, use practical techniques such as asking the patient to explain back instructions. For instance: “Can you show me how you will use this inhaler, so I can make sure I explained it clearly?” This ensures any misunderstanding is identified and corrected immediately.
Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the healthcare provider to explore the matter patiently and ensure proper understanding, using reassuring prompts such as: “It’s okay if something is unclear—I just want to make sure I explained it correctly.”
Innovative Initiatives
In recent years, several important initiatives have emerged to support individuals with hearing disabilities. For example, the Mowaamah application enables real-time connection with a sign language interpreter, providing valuable assistance for healthcare practitioners. In Australia, an innovative project developed interactive medical dictionaries for the Deaf community, aiming to unify medical terminology and improve healthcare services. Other interactive apps have been launched that provide medication instructions in sign language.
Many studies have highlighted that modern technologies—such as real-time translation apps or digital sign language interpreters—play a significant role in bridging major communication gaps between healthcare providers and individuals with hearing impairments.
All of this underscores a central point: healthcare practitioners need patience and must be willing to dedicate extra time for deaf patients. For the patient, it can be disheartening to sense impatience or rushed behavior from the provider. What seems like simple communication for the practitioner often requires substantial effort from the patient.
Therefore, as a healthcare provider, maintain calmness and patience. Repeating or rephrasing information when necessary is entirely normal. Always remember: communication is a cornerstone of comprehensive, humane healthcare.
Conclusion
The Saudi Commission for Health Specialties reaffirms its commitment to supporting individuals with hearing disabilities by enabling access to services and appropriate training. Do you have experience or suggestions that could enrich this field? We welcome your contribution through our newsletter email.
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