At 2axend, improving Deaf and hard of hearing individuals’ experiences and continuum of care in healthcare settings is a core part of our mission and work.

Deaf and hard of hearing individuals encounter a myriad of challenges when accessing healthcare services, communicating their health issues, and understanding healthcare providers. These challenges are often a byproduct of: 

1. healthcare professionals not understanding their legal obligations;
2. healthcare organizations doing the minimum to stay legally compliant; and
3. healthcare professionals not receiving adequate training on working with Deaf and hard of hearing patients.

While these challenges contribute to disparate experiences for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, they underscore the need for healthcare organizations to employ strategies and initiatives designed to optimize Deaf and hard of hearing individuals’ end-to-end healthcare experiences. 

We are committed to partnering with healthcare organizations to transform the healthcare experience for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. As such, we developed this white paper to provide best practices and actionable steps for your healthcare organization to implement.

Who is this white paper for?

This white paper is designed for those who are committed to breaking down systemic barriers and improving patient experiences for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals. Regardless of whether you are a physician, a care team member, a patient experience team member, or even a healthcare administrator, if you are looking for guidance on delivering patient-centered care to Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, this white paper is for you.

Why should I use the white paper?

There are an estimated 48 million Deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States. As there are many variables that impact healthcare organizations’ abilities to deliver optimal patient experiences and reduce health disparities for this diverse population, this white paper was designed with input from Deaf and hard of hearing individuals to help healthcare organizations satisfy this population’s cultural, social, and linguistic needs in clinical settings.

When should I use the white paper?

At 2axend, we believe it is critical for healthcare organizations to be proactive. Your healthcare organization can refer to this white paper to help pinpoint areas where your organization can improve capacity to deliver patient-centric experiences and advance the quality, safety, and care for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals.

Where can I use the white paper?

This white paper is primarily designed for healthcare organizations, including health systems and integrated delivery networks; hospitals; academic medical centers and teaching hospitals; medical groups; independent physician associations; and other physician organizations. No matter where you are, you can use this white paper to successfully implement best practices in your organization.