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Published on: September 7, 2022
Silent connections: Radiographers' challenges and practices in supporting deaf patients.
M A Ali1, M Rawashdeh2, M Zaitoun3
1Medical Imaging Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates.
Radiographers in the UAE often use visual cues over sign language due to limited training. Enhancing communication skills through targeted training and resources is vital for equitable deaf patient care.
Area of Science:
- Radiology and healthcare communication
- Patient-centered care for individuals with disabilities
- Health equity in medical imaging
Background:
- Effective communication is crucial for equitable healthcare access for deaf patients, particularly in radiology.
- Radiographers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) encounter significant challenges related to training and resources for communicating with deaf individuals.
- This study addresses the need to improve inclusive, patient-centered care for deaf patients in UAE radiology departments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the current communication practices of radiographers with deaf patients in the UAE.
- To identify barriers and training gaps in providing care to deaf patients.
- To propose strategies for enhancing communication and healthcare equity.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 120 radiographers in the UAE.
- Data collection via a structured online questionnaire utilizing convenience and snowball sampling.
- Statistical analysis included descriptive and inferential methods (chi-square, Fisher's exact tests) with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05.
Main Results:
- A high percentage of radiographers (89.2%) rely on visual cues, with only 36.7% proficient in sign language (p=0.041).
- Limited training opportunities (19.2% access to sign language courses) and resource constraints (70.0%) were major barriers.
- Experienced radiographers (≥10 years) reported more successful interactions (92.9%; p=0.030) than less experienced ones. PhD holders showed higher awareness of assistive tools (66.7%) compared to BSc holders (41.4%).
Conclusions:
- Radiographers show adaptability but systemic challenges impede effective communication with deaf patients.
- Targeted training, enhanced institutional policies, and improved access to assistive technologies are essential for healthcare equity.
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD) initiatives, including sign language training and deaf awareness programs, are critical for bridging skill gaps and promoting inclusive care.
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