What are the unique elements of caring for people who are deaf or hard of hearing in integrated primary care? How can we best understand, assess and plan care in ways that best meet their needs?

Our goal in this training module is to ensure primary care providers have the most current and relevant information to integrate and deliver care for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. Providers are best positioned to care for people when they know who is deaf or hard of hearing – this often includes seniors and people who are deaf/blind. In many practices, people are not asked to indicate if they are deaf or hard of hearing.

It is the practice’s responsibility to provider an ASL interpreter and so it is in their best interest to know who needs this service prior to scheduling. When providers do not know a patient is deaf or hard of hearing they can inaccurately assess and care for people. Frequently people who are deaf or hard of hearing find themselves having to meet the providers’ needs, instead of their own, which may lead to inaccurate needs assessment and care planning. People who are deaf or hard of hearing report that their care as patients is often complicated by miscommunication or lack of provider attention. This disconnect can be complicated by a sense of discomfort due to past experiences when attempting to receive quality whole person care. It is critical that providers communicate with both head and heart – to ensure they accurately and completely assess and work to meet the needs of people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Learning Objectives

After completing this module, the learner should be able to:

• Recognize limitations in your practice setting that may complicate your interactions when you are caring for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Recognize ways to adapt your relationship skills and care delivery for every person who seeks your care including those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Describe the specific ways your team and you can create a practice environment that meets the needs of people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Know where you can access information regarding of the delivery of integrated care for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Who Should Complete this Module?

The information in this module is valuable for all integrated team members including physicians, clinicians, nurses, behavioral health providers, medical assistants, front & back office, and care managers.