Communication Barriers in Oncology Care for Elderly Deaf Patients: A Daughter's Narrative and Call for Tailored Medical Services

Abstract

My father is deaf. A year ago, he was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. Most patients with hearing disabilities suffer from a lack of access to health care in a form that ensures they receive a rapid diagnosis, correct and effective treatment, and medical treatment options they understand. The minimal evidence that exists is associated with the timeliness of a cancer diagnosis, therapy, and consequences for these patients. We must give them the appropriate treatment for their disease and include them in clinical trials if they will benefit from them and provide health care workers training and tools on how to communicate better with these patients.