Deaf People and Healthcare Communication

This chapter provides resources for healthcare professionals and students who work with deaf and hard of hearing patients (D/HH) in healthcare settings. This chapter also addresses different areas of D/HH topics, including the following: disability justice principles; the use of People-First Language; the theoretical lenses on Deaf Studies and Disability Studies; and the definitions of deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf, and deafness myths. In addition, the challenges of healthcare communication with D/HH patients are raised, including the advantages and disadvantages of video remote interpreting versus in-person interpreting and the intersectionality and cultural impact on patient–provider communication. Finally, communication strategies are offered for working with D/HH patients.