An innovative, Australian-first training approach aims to transform the healthcare experience for Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing South Australians, with the program now in place at Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN).
Launched on December 3 2024, the initiative was developed in partnership with Deaf Connect (formerly known as Deaf Can:Do).
The online training program is designed to help healthcare workers better understand and address the unique needs of the Deaf community, improving communication and ensuring equitable care.
Chris King, Executive Director of Allied Health at CALHN said the program was a vital part of delivering safe and connected care at CALHN.
“We are pleased to partner with Deaf Connect to deliver improved healthcare services for consumers who are Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing across our health network,” she said.
“We have worked in collaboration with Deaf Connect to refine these training modules to ensure they provide practical advice for our CALHN workforce to support our delivery of services for our patients.”
Real life scenarios
The training program aims to break down the barriers that Deaf Australians may face in the healthcare system.
By using real-life scenarios, the program works to debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding the provision of care, giving healthcare professionals the tools they need to navigate the complexities of communication with Deaf patients. This includes understanding the diverse ways individuals communicate and providing opportunities to book Auslan interpreters to support patients during medical appointments.
King emphasized the importance of informed decision-making for all health consumers.
“All patients have the right to make decisions regarding their own health and this training provides our teams with a toolkit to better communicate and understand the needs of people who are Deaf, Deafblind, and Hard of Hearing so we can achieve the best outcomes for our patients,” she said.
Importance of culture and language
Deaf Connect CEO Brett Casey said the training increases awareness of the cultural and linguistic rights of the Deaf community, and helps create a more inclusive healthcare environment where all patients feel respected and understood.
“This collaboration with Central Adelaide Local Health Network marks a significant step towards making healthcare more accessible for Deaf community members and fostering greater understanding among healthcare professionals,” he said.
“Our tailored Deafness Awareness Training provides hospital staff with the knowledge and skills to meet the unique communication needs of Deaf patients in medical settings.”
The program will expand to additional local health networks across South Australia in the future.
Image thanks to Tim Mossholder on Unsplash.
