Perception of onsultation quality and communication barriers in deaf patients: a pilot study

Abstract Background Healthcare must reduce inequalities and optimize resources, benefiting vulnerable groups such as the deaf. Effective communication is key to improving consultation quality in this population. Methods A cross-sectional, prospective study was conducted in Veracruz (Feb-Jun 2024). Deaf adults (>18 years) who used Mexican Sign Language (LSM), read, and wrote were included. Incomplete surveys were excluded. The dependent variable was perceived consultation quality; independent variables included patient communication methods, discrimination, autonomy, and physician communication strategies. Sample: 31. Odds ratios (OR), 95% confidence intervals (CI), and p < 0.05 significance were calculated (SPSS v.27). Results Among 31 participants, 70.9% rated consultation quality as ‘fair/excellent,’ and 29.0% as ‘poor/very poor.’ Discrimination was reported by 35.4%. Factors associated with better quality included not being fluent in spoken (OR: 0.08; CI: 0.01-0.54), and inability to lip-read (OR: 0.03; CI: 0.003-0.3). Negative associations were found when physicians did not allow lip-reading (OR: 0.04; CI: 0.004-0.4), did not know sign language (OR: 0), did not speak slowly and loudly (OR: 0), or failed to use visual aids (OR: 0). Also, when doctors prioritized companions, patients did not understand, or were excluded from conversation (all p < 0.05). Conclusions Lack of communication resources and strategies by physicians is negatively associated with consultation quality perceived by deaf patients. Key messages • Training physicians in visual tools and inclusive communication (sign language) to optimize care for deaf patients. • Prioritize direct communication with the deaf patient, avoiding directing the consultation to the companion.