Monday 10th September 2012
Communication barriers are deterring deaf and hard of hearing people from accessing cancer testing. They feel isolated, confused and unnecessarily fearful, according to the charity BID Services.
Sarah Treadwell-Baker, Macmillan BID Deaf Cancer Care Coordinator, says, ‘We need doctors throughout the country to become aware of the issues facing deaf people.’
Deaf-friendly information and the provision of sign language-trained interpreters can put people with hearing impairment at ease, and help them to understand their situation when they are referred, diagnosed or treated for cancer. But these specialised services are not always immediately available.
Because of these barriers, Macmillan is funding and supporting a new initiative by BID called the Deaf Cancer Care Programme. The programme aims to increase deaf awareness among medical professionals, particularly cancer specialists, by offering them training and guidance on how to use British Sign Language interpreters. The programme will also give specialist information, support and advice to deaf people affected by cancer.