About this course
This comprehensive course is aimed at UK dental professionals seeking to enhance their communication and accessibility strategies to better accommodate Deaf and hard-of-hearing patients. It provides essential knowledge and practical approaches to support inclusive patient care.
Our course looks into the details of hearing loss and Deaf culture within the dental setting, providing valuable insights into communication strategies and legal responsibilities. You will learn how to effectively interact with patients who have hearing impairments, recognise the importance of cultural awareness, and implement reasonable adjustments in your practice.
Enhancing communication and accessibility for Deaf patients is very important for providing equitable healthcare. This course offers a thorough exploration of the necessary techniques and adjustments, enhancing your ability to deliver inclusive care and meet legal obligations.
This course is relevant to dentists, nurses, hygienists, therapists, and other dental care professionals.
CPD Time: 1 hours (1 CPD Credit)
Customer feedback on this course
- The course provided invaluable insights into Deaf culture and communication.
- I feel much more confident in making my practice accessible to Deaf patients.
- Learning basic BSL phrases was extremely useful and appreciated by my patients.
- Great information on legal responsibilities and practical implementation.
- The resources and support links will be helpful for ongoing learning and practice adaptation.
Assessment: 10 MCQs. Pass mark 80%. more…
On passing the assessment you will immediately receive a GDC-recognised Enhanced CPD Certificate.
Aim:
Equip dental teams with knowledge and strategies for inclusive communication with Deaf and hard-of-hearing patients.
Course Objectives:
• Understand hearing loss and the distinctions within the Deaf community.
• Identify reasonable adjustments to improve accessibility for Deaf patients.
Anticipated Learning Outcomes:
• Understand the range of hearing impairments.
• Gain communication skills for Deaf patients.
• Implement reasonable accessibility adjustments.
• Access resources for enhanced Deaf awareness.
• Create an inclusive practice environment.
GDC Development Outcome: A, B, D
Learning content:
Understanding Hearing Loss, Deafness, and the Deaf Community | Communication Strategies for Supporting Patients with Hearing Loss | Legal Responsibilities and Reasonable Adjustments in Dental Practice | Creating a Deaf-Friendly Environment in the Dental Practice
View full course description
Deaf Awareness for UK Dental Teams
Course Description
Understanding Hearing Loss, Deafness, and the Deaf Community
This module introduces the spectrum of hearing loss and explains terminology used within the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Learners will look at the cultural significance of Deaf identity and the primary language, British Sign Language (BSL). The module includes respectful language practices and distinguishes between medical and cultural perspectives on deafness.
Communication Strategies for Supporting Patients with Hearing Loss
Learners will gain practical communication skills for interacting with Deaf or hard-of-hearing patients, focusing on both verbal and non-verbal methods. Strategies include face-to-face positioning, using visual aids, minimising background noise, and basic British Sign Language (BSL) phrases relevant to dental settings.
Legal Responsibilities and Reasonable Adjustments in Dental Practice
This module covers legal obligations under the Equality Act 2010, focusing on providing equal access and making reasonable adjustments for individuals with disabilities. Learners will look at examples of adjustments like providing written information, scheduling extra appointment time, and using assistive devices such as hearing loops.
Creating a Deaf-Friendly Environment in the Dental Practice
Learners will discover practical environmental adjustments to support Deaf and hard-of-hearing patients. Topics include clear signage, visual alert systems, appropriate lighting for lip reading, and optimising reception and waiting areas to reduce communication barriers.