From Ahmad Muhammad,Bauchi
The Deaf Women Association of Nigeria,(DWAN) advocated for interpreters in health institutions for effective communication between the deaf patients and the medical staff in the Institution.
The Zonal Secretary of the Association Mrs Miyawa Mshelia made the call at the first North East 2023 Zonal Annual General Meeting and conference on Wednesday in Bauchi.
She noted that a deaf person is exposed to a higher stress level and at risk of receiving inadequate health care and health-related information due to limitations in communication between the deaf person and the health care workers.
“Clear communication between patients and medical staff is critical to have a positive interaction and successful health outcomes.
“Many people who are Deaf or hard of hearing have experienced difficulty in a hospital or medical setting predominantly around communication.
“Due to gaps in understanding or awareness on both sides, Deaf patients may not be fully informed as to their treatment or their options,” she said.
Mshelia stressed that the difficulties in communication cause emotional reactions with nurses and other health workers.
“There is a need for manual alphabet and sign language, and the perception about the need for an interpreter of sign language in a health institution.,” she said.
