Forty-six health workers in Kaduna State have been trained in basic sign language to improve communication with hearing-impaired patients.
The initiative is aimed at promoting inclusive healthcare and reducing barriers to access.
For many persons with hearing impairment, visiting a health facility can be a difficult and frustrating experience.
The inability to communicate effectively with health workers often discourages them from seeking care, especially for sensitive health issues.
To address this gap, health workers from 23 facilities across Kaduna North, Kaduna South and Chikun local government areas have undergone intensive training in basic sign language.
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The one-week programme, supported by Sightsavers in collaboration with the Nigeria National Association of the Deaf and the Association of Sign Language Interpreters in Nigeria, Kaduna chapter, focused on improving communication in healthcare delivery, particularly in sexual and reproductive health.
The initiative is designed to build confidence among hearing-impaired patients and encourage them to access healthcare services without fear or stigma.
Participants described the training as both practical and impactful.
Beyond improving communication, the initiative represents a broader effort to make healthcare more inclusive, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
