The Deaf Women Association of Nigeria, DWAN, has advocated employment of interpreters in health institutions for effective communication between deaf patients and medical staff in the institutions.
The zonal secretary of the association Miyawa Mshelia made the call at the first North East 2023 Zonal Annual General Meeting and Conference on Wednesday in Bauchi.
She noted that a deaf person is exposed to a higher stress level and at risk of receiving inadequate health care and health-related information due to limitations in communication between the deaf person and the health care workers.
“Clear communication between patients and medical staff is critical to have a positive interaction and successful health outcomes.
“Many people who are hard of hearing have experienced difficulty in a hospital or medical setting predominantly around communication.
“Due to gaps in understanding or awareness on both sides, patients with hearing challenges may not be fully informed as to their treatment or their options,” she said.
Ms Mshelia stressed that the difficulties in communication caused emotional reactions with nurses and other health workers.
“There is need for manual alphabet and sign language, and the perception about the need for an interpreter of sign language in a health institution,” she said.
The zonal secretary also called for women-centered policies which could better the lives of less-privileged hearing challenged women hidden everywhere in the nation.
She noted that the meeting was to create awareness, exchange ideas, network, build capacity and establish synergy with relevant organisations.
“To address the issues of marginalisation, violation and discrimination against deaf women and girls especially in the areas of sexual and reproductive health.
“We see a future where deaf women are liberated and empowered to live with dignity and excel in their chosen paths toward achieving equality for deaf women at all spheres of human endeavour,” she said.
Speaking earlier, the chairperson of the association in Bauchi State, Tabawa Garba, sought support of government and non-governmental organisations including health care facilities and schools.
“We urge religious leaders, business owners across the nation to create an inclusive community for deaf women through the provision of sign language interpreters in all activities and signage at public places,” she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the conference is with the theme: “Recognising Deaf Women’s Rights” with participants from Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe states.
NAN
