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Updated: Dec 20, 2025

Assessment of Audio-Tactile Sensory Substitution Training in Participants with Profound Deafness Using the Event-Related Potential Technique
Published on: September 7, 2022
Using interpreters for Deaf patients and patients with limited English proficiency
1Heather L. Brown is director of clinical education for the PA program at Brenau University in Gainesville, Ga., and works in emergency and urgent care medicine in Atlanta, Ga. The author has disclosed no potential conflicts of interest, financial or otherwise.
Abstract:
Communication breakdowns with patients who do not use English as their primary language can hurt the patient-provider relationship and leave patients at risk for health disparities and adverse reactions. An estimated 36 million patients in the United States identify as Deaf and more than 60 million patients prefer to speak a language other than English in primary communication. This article discusses the unique needs of patients who are Deaf or have limited English proficiency, and how to provide qualified interpreters to help improve patient communication and care.
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