Program Evaluation Communication Access Center

Abstract

Communication is one of the most integral components of health care access, knowledge, and care. Without effective communication it is impossible to actively engage in health seeking activities, behaviors and appropriate treatment modalities. Merriam-Webster (2019) defines communication as “a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior”. It further defines it as “a verbal or written message”. Individuals in our community who do not have the ability to communicate by societal norms, such as verbal and written messaging, are at a clear disadvantage. Deaf, deafblind and hard of hearing (DHH) community members are among those marginalized groups who are disadvantaged when accessing the health care system. Communication is therefore a significant obstacle to health care for persons who are DHH and considered to be among other language minority groups (Matthews, Parkhill, Schlehofer, Starr & Barnett, 2011).