48 Million Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind and Late Deafened Individuals in the United States
All will need healthcare services.
We surveyed 500+ Deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind, and late deafened individuals who utilize a variety of communication strategies in healthcare settings.
Here's what we found:
- 18.6
Reported they do not get preferred/requested accommodations for healthcare-related visits and appointments.
- 23.7
Shared they do not have access to effective communication in healthcare settings.
- 38.3
Feel healthcare providers treat them differently because they are Deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind, or late deafened.
- 43.7
Shared requesting interpreters and other accommodations (e.g., CART, VRI) for healthcare-related appointments and visits is a difficult process.
- 47.3
Believe healthcare providers do not understand how to deliver culturally sensitive and appropriate care to Deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind, and late deafened individuals.
- 93.7
Feel healthcare providers can do a better job in meeting their needs as a Deaf, hard of hearing, DeafBlind, or late deafened individual.
“I don’t go to the doctor anymore unless I’m dying because getting accommodations is like pulling teeth. No thanks!”
– Hard of Hearing individual from Texas
“Healthcare providers should be above the curve. Ready and prepared to assist those with hearing loss.”
– Deaf individual from California
At 2axend, it is our goal to help healthcare organizations do better – that's why we're hosting the 2022 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Experiences in Healthcare Summit.
Join us on October 21, 2022!