Can my doctor deny me a sign language interpreter during my medical appointments if lip reading and written notes work just as well?
Yes, but only if lip reading and written notes would assure effective communication during a particular appointment. For persons who use lip reading regularly or read and understand print well, lip reading and written notes may assure effective communication during some appointments. However, lip reading and written notes are not always effective to communicate large amounts of detailed and complicated information. Lip reading only captures twenty-five percent of spoken content, on average. Written notes may be too slow, incomplete and inaccurate to keep up with the discussion and may be too different from American Sign Language and other signed language for some deaf people to recognize. Lip reading and written notes may assure effective communication for some appointments and not for others. The communication method should be chosen according to the nature and purpose of each appointment.
Related Questions
- My doctor complains that a sign language interpreter costs more than my doctor is paid for my medical appointment. Can my doctor refuse to pay?
- Which kind of appointments require a Sign Language Interpreter to assure me equal access, quality of service, and effective communication?
- Under HIPAA regulations, can a doctor or treating facility send medical documentation without written authorization?
