Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia (MQHZ) has urged government to recruit sign language interpreters in healthcare facilities across the country, to ensure equal access to quality healthcare for Zambia’s deaf community.
The comment follows the recent loss of a deaf patient due to misdiagnosis resulting from communication barriers.
MQHZ Director General, Quince Mwabu, says the timely recruitment and training of sign language interpreters can prevent such incidents.
“To address this significant barrier, MQHZ recommends that the government prioritizes the recruitment and training of sign language interpreters in hospitals at all levels,” said Dr. Mwabu.
He said this should be complemented by integrating sign language into medical curricula and providing mandatory sign language training for healthcare professionals.
Dr. Mwabu said this will ensure Zambia’s deaf community receives quality healthcare, prevent unnecessary suffering, and promote inclusive healthcare for all.
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