Deaf patients across Kent are now sporting an innovative card to help health services support them at their appointments by providing a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter.
The business-style card, which is completely free and the brainchild of East Kent University Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust (EKHUFT), Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust (KCHFT), and Kent County Council (KCC), was launched last week (27 May) at Thanet Gateway. The card will make sure all Deaf patients are able to effectively communicate that they need a BSL interpreter at every appointment.
EKHUFT’S Head of Equality and Engagement Bruce Campion-Smith, said: “This card may seem simple, but it will give Deaf people the confidence to feel in control of their own healthcare and help them communicate with healthcare colleagues.”
“We have printed 1,000 cards to give to Deaf people across Kent and we are sharing this news with our colleagues and services across our emergency hospitals, community hospitals, clinics and local services so they can be ready to support patients as soon as they see the card.”
Most people do not realise that for many Deaf people, English is not their first language. It must be very frightening having to sit through a medical appointment if you cannot understand what is being said to you. Deaf people can now show this card before their appointments to make sure their healthcare professional is prepared and able to support them with an interpreter.
Information about how to book an interpreter or speak to your divisional coordinator can be found on the Staff Zone.
