Providing health care to patients with hearing loss during <scp>COVID</scp>‐19 and physical distancing
Jessica West, Kevin H. Franck, D. Bradley Welling
Abstract
Physical distancing (rather than “social distancing”) highlights the importance of remaining socially connected while preventing the spread of the virus via reductions in physical interaction.2 The thought of being diagnosed with COVID-19 is a scary one but might be particularly terrifying for a person with hearing loss who communicates via spoken language, as they may be unsure of the quality of communication they will receive while being treated. Physical distancing is necessary still, but may be very challenging for people with hearing loss as they cope with technological challenges to maintain social connection. By employing the communication tips and strategies discussed in this letter, we hope to raise awareness of the challenges faced by people with hearing loss during this global pandemic and to provide means to address them. For more information, visit the HLAA guidelines for communicating with health care workers during COVID-19.10 The authors declare no potential conflict of interest.