The Deaf Women Association of Nigeria (DWAN) has advocated for having sign language interpreters in all health institutions for effective communication between deaf patients and the medical staff for effective and efficient healthcare service delivery.
The advocacy was made by the Zonal Secretary of the Association, Mrs Miyawa Mshelia, at the first North East 2023 Zonal Annual General Meeting and conference held on Wednesday in Bauchi.
She noted that a deaf person is exposed to a higher stress level and is at risk of receiving inadequate healthcare and health-related information due to limitations in communication between the deaf person and the healthcare workers.
According to her, “clear communication between patients and medical staff is critical to a positive interaction and successful health outcomes. Many people who are deaf or hard of hearing have experienced difficulty in a hospital or medical setting, predominantly around communication.”
She also said that “due to gaps in understanding or awareness on both sides, Deaf patients may not be fully informed as to their treatment or their options.”.
Miyawa Mshelia stressed that the difficulties in communication cause emotional reactions from nurses and other health workers, saying, “There is a need for manual alphabet and sign language, and there is a perception about the need for an interpreter of sign language in a health institution.”.
The Zonal Secretary also called for women-centred policies that can better the lives of less-privileged deaf 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.
She further said, “To address the issues of marginalisation, violation, and discrimination against deaf women and girls, especially in the areas of sexual and reproductive,”
“We see a future where deaf women are liberated and empowered to live with dignity and excel in their chosen paths towards achieving equality for deaf women in all spheres of human endeavour,” she said.
Earlier, The Chairperson of the Association in Bauchi State, Hajiya Tabawa Garba, sought the support of government and non-governmental organisations, including healthcare facilities, schools,
“Religious leaders, business owners, and the like across the nation must create an inclusive community for deaf women through the provision of sign language interpreters in all activities and signage at public places,” she said.
Our correspondent reports that the conference had the theme “Recognising Deaf Women’s Rights,” with participants from Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe States.
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