Poster Presentations
Description
Honors Thesis poster presentation.
Health literacy is a constantly evolving concept that requires similarly evolving adaptation and specialization of health care to increase the quality of life for all. One demographic that is largely ignored when it comes to research in health literacy, specifically in the traditional South, is the d/Deaf and hard of hearing/Hard of Hearing (DHH) population. The purpose of this study is to determine the general health literacy of this specific demographic and compare results with that of other demographics to highlight the anticipated deficit in health literacy levels and emphasize the critical need for specialized care. This prospective, non-experimental, descriptive study utilized online survey software to gather anonymous general health literacy levels of those that self-identify as DHH. This survey consisted of the Short Assessment of Health Literacy English (SAHL-E) to determine health literacy level and follow-up questions based on trauma in healthcare. Out of 10 participants, all scored greater than or equal to 14, demonstrating good health literacy. Eight of these participants provided thoughtful responses to the questions about trauma and healthcare. Upon analysis, the data shows that regardless of socio-economic status, those who are DHH are in need of accommodations that allow for consistent, high quality health care. This data contributes not only to the realization of reality for the DHH in health care settings, but also the nationwide goal of increasing general health literacy and thus the quality of life.
Publication Date
5-2022
City
Mobile
Keywords
health literacy, deaf, hard of hearing, South
Disciplines
Communication Sciences and Disorders | Disability Studies | Medicine and Health Sciences | Social and Behavioral Sciences | Speech and Hearing Science
Recommended Citation
Kittrell, Kaleb, "Deficits in Health Literacy and Inadequacies of Specialized Health Care in the South for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Patients" (2022). Poster Presentations. 2.
https://jagworks.southalabama.edu/honors_college_posters/2