New service launched to support deaf patients

NHS England has commissioned a new service to support deaf people in contacting GPs, dental and optometry services, as well as pharmacies in the East of England.

The service has been set up to enable profoundly sensory impaired service users who require additional support to contact primary care services that are currently unavailable to them.

Carers may also contact on behalf of patients.

It is designed for patients who can only communicate using British Sign Language and other non-spoken languages.

Members of the deaf community are able to text, call, email, fax and video call to access confidential support for their primary care needs, such as arranging appointments, attending appointments and post appointment needs.

ALL interpreters are NRCPD fully registered.

Visit www.dalanguages.co.uk for more information about the service, including video guides.