Hyderabad, India – A significant health camp dedicated to the deaf community took place at the Hyderabad center organized by the Deaf EnAbled Foundation (DEF) in collaboration with the KIMS Foundation and Research Centre. This event, part of the Sign Care initiative, offered free medical consultations and interpreter support to over 150 deaf individuals, highlighting the necessity for accessibility and inclusion in healthcare.
Many in the deaf community face challenges when seeking medical help, not only due to financial concerns but also because expressing health issues can be difficult without professional interpreter support. This communication barrier often results in misdiagnoses and delays in receiving treatment.
To tackle these issues, the Sign Care initiative was launched in December 2024, marking the establishment of India’s first telemedicine facility specifically for the deaf. Located at KIMS Hospital in Secunderabad, this initiative provides free online medical consultations with sign language interpretation, aiding deaf individuals both in remote areas and urban settings. Since it began, more than 200 deaf households across the nation have reached out for assistance through this service.
One notable participant, B. Venkataiah, a retired Railway employee who is deaf, shared his experience. He recalled suffering from severe leg pain and visiting several hospitals in Vijayawada. Unfortunately, he couldn’t communicate effectively with the doctors, who didn’t explain his condition clearly. Frustrated with not being able to ask questions, he only received a prescription and a suggestion for surgery. However, at the Sign Care camp, the presence of an interpreter allowed him to communicate with his doctor and gain a better understanding of his condition. “I finally felt truly supported,” he said, mentioning how the doctor was able to guide him on necessary lifestyle changes.
The Sign Care initiative is setting an important example for healthcare practices, emphasizing the need to bridge communication gaps and ensuring deaf individuals receive the medical attention and support they deserve. By prioritizing the unique needs of the deaf community, this initiative is paving the way for a more inclusive future in healthcare.
