Grace M. Phelan* and Elizabeth W. Ayers
Objectives: There exists many communication barriers for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) patients receiving dental care. Providers can address this inequity and offer better care by using sign language. However, there are few instances of sign language or deaf culture courses in dental school curriculums. Only one unique curriculum at The University of the West Indies (UWI) dental school, Mona Jamaica, includes mandatory courses in sign language and deaf culture as well as clinical application of sign language. This study is intended to investigate this curriculum, determine the effectiveness of sign language training for dental students, and assess the longevity of its impacts.
Methods: Performed in 2024, this study included a semi structured interview with a professor who contributed to development of the sign language program at UWI, and questionnaires completed by alumni of this program.
Results: Four alumni participated. Most revealed enjoyment of the courses, and a continued use of sign language after graduation, with some loss in proficiency. One alumnus revealed negative experiences and no retention of sign language. The outlying negative response is assumed to be due to disorganization in an early cohort, and limited patient interaction while pursuing a residency after graduation.
Conclusion: The loss of proficiency over time suggests a need for continued sign language education opportunities for dental professionals. The alumni also suggested improving the course by use of signing partners, online resources, and earlier implementation. Other dental schools may use this information to develop similar sign language curriculums.
Published Date: 2024-07-08; Received Date: 2024-06-07
