University of Malaya dentists learn sign language to better serve deaf patients

In a commendable initiative that bridges communication gaps in healthcare, Universiti Malaya's Faculty of Dentistry has taken a significant step towards inclusivity. A group of 64 students, graduates, and lecturers have undergone basic training in Malaysian Sign Language (BIM), the official language for the deaf community in Malaysia.

This proactive effort, part of the #Signon initiative, directly addresses the challenges faced by dental professionals when communicating with deaf patients. By learning BIM, these healthcare providers can now more effectively gather medical histories, understand patient concerns, and provide a higher standard of care. This is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment, especially when patients cannot verbally articulate their symptoms.

The practical application of this new skill was evident during the Inclusivity Carnival 2.0, themed 'Where Smiles Connect.' This event, a service-learning component of the MoSC program, focused on strengthening access to dental health services for the deaf community. It not only provided valuable experience for the UM students but also promoted dental health literacy and sustainable oral care practices among the deaf.

Dr. Muhammad Khairil Husny Izhar highlighted the initial difficulties but emphasized the success achieved through dedication. The initiative underscores a commitment to creating a more empathetic and accessible healthcare system, ensuring that the deaf community receives the attentive and effective care they deserve. This aligns with Malaysia's broader goals of inclusivity and support for persons with disabilities.

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We found that when treating deaf patients, we faced communication problems with them. As a result, we had difficulty obtaining accurate medical histories. For example, what kind of pain, whether it was throbbing or otherwise.