AUDIOLOGY/ HEARING

Access Program
ACCESS is an International commitment to promote access to communication for people who are hard of hearing. Access involves an organized program of education and training to increase sensitivity to the needs of people who are hard of hearing, the provision of sign language and oral interpreters as needed, and use of different types of technical devices to ensure that facilities will be accessible.
The purpose of the North American hospital program is to make hospitals more accessible to people who are hard of hearing and to reduce the anxiety and frustration that so often accompanies a trip to the hospital, while also promoting health and safety. Better interpersonal communication between staff, patients and families is the thrust of the program.
Why do we need to implement ACCESS at AHSC?
People who are hard of hearing are not easily identified. Their hearing loss does not show: it is invisible.
Sometimes a person can be hard of hearing and not be aware of it, even though others are. It is even more difficult for the hard of hearing person to understand when they are not feeling well.
When a person goes into the hospital, it is important for them to understand what is happening around them, and to feel comfortable and participate in their care.
The goal of ACCESS is to insure accessibility to medical services for people who are hard of hearing and to create a supportive and healthy communication environment.
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