Healthcare

Pharmacy service counter with a height that can serve a person in a wheelchair. In front is a floor mat that has a hearing loop.
Counter hearing loops at check-in counters at medical offices
Portable hearing loop on bedside table in hospital

Floor mat hearing loop in front of pharmacy counter. Photo credit: Audio Directions

Counter hearing loops at check-in counters at medical offices. Photo credit: Audio Directions

Portable counter hearing loop on bedside table at hospital.

A doctor visit or hospital stay can be stressful enough, but if you do not hear well, that stress is compounded because of the critical nature of the information being disseminated. It is essential for the patient’s health and well-being that they clearly understand doctors’ and medical staff ‘s instructions. Understanding and asking appropriate questions can avoid mistakes and misunderstandings, which helps the patient to make reasoned decisions and get the safest and best care possible.

Possible Assistive Listening System Locations

  • Service desks: emergency room check-in, information desk, pharmacy (Counter hearing loops)
  • Individual patients: consultation, patient room (Portable counter hearing loop, portable FM system)
  • Rooms: auditoriums, community rooms, chapel (Permanent hearing loop, FM, IR)

Because communication is a cornerstone of patient safety and quality care, every patient has the right to receive information in a manner he or she understands. Effective communication allows patients to participate more fully in their care. When a patient understands what is being said about his or her care, treatment, and services, that patient is more likely to fulfill critical health care responsibilities. Communicating effectively with patients is also critical to the informed consent process and helps practitioners and hospitals give the best possible care.
—The Joint Commission Comprehensive Accreditation Manual for Hospitals , “Rights and Responsibilities of the Individual” Chapter, Introduction to Standard R1.01.03 (2019)

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updated 9/3/24

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