Patient-centeredness, satisfaction with clinical appointment and adherence to therapeutic among deaf adults and non deaf adults

Abstract

Abstract Background The patient-centeredness (PC) is particularly challenging for the deaf population, mainly due to communication barriers. We compared the perception of PC, regarding the last medical appointment, satisfaction with the consult, adherence and health perception among a group of deaf adults and a group of adults from the general population; and analyzed the relation between these variables in adult's deaf group. Methods Adults from the general population (n = 1335) and deaf adults (n = 36) from different national associations completed the validated Portuguese version of a self-reported questionnaire (PPCD-16) and answered questions on satisfaction, adherence and health perception. The deaf group subsample watched a video with the translation of the questionnaire to Portuguese Sign Language. Results The two subsamples didn’t differ significantly in the PPCD-16 total and dimensional scores; only in 5 items, related to the perception of the consult motive and to the doctor’s concern for the patient, did the deaf group subsample show significantly lower scores. The same was verified for the satisfaction, adherence, and physical and psychological health perceptions. The PPCD-16 total and dimensional scores presented a significant, positive and moderate- high correlation with satisfaction and adherence. Total PPCD-16 and the dimensional score of Empathy were significant predictors of satisfaction and adherence. Conclusions There wereńt significant differences between the two groups in the PPCD-16 scores, but deaf participants consider that ‘many times’, they cańt understand and be understood by the physician. These factors may contribute to their lower satisfaction and adherence. More studies will be necessary to show the relevance of Portuguese Sign Language interpreters.