Why was the hospital trust criticized by the ombudsman?

The hospital trust was criticized for consistently failing to provide reasonable adjustments, specifically British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters, for a deaf patient and his family.

What impact did the lack of BSL interpreters have on the family?

The lack of interpreters caused worry and distress to the family in the weeks before the patient's death and limited the daughter's ability to communicate with clinicians.

What actions must the hospital trust take following the ombudsman's findings?

The trust must draw up an action plan, apologize to the family, and make compensation payments to the grandchildren and their mother.

Home / Health / Ombudsman Slams Trust Over Communication Failures for Deaf Patient

Ombudsman Slams Trust Over Communication Failures for Deaf Patient

11 Feb

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Summary

Trust failed to provide BSL interpreters consistently for a deaf patient's family.
Lack of interpreters caused worry and distress to the family before death.
Trust ordered to pay compensation and issue an apology to the family.

Ombudsman Slams Trust Over Communication Failures for Deaf Patient

A hospital trust has been admonished by an ombudsman for its consistent failure to make reasonable adjustments for a deaf patient and his family, contradicting national guidance.

Rebecca Hilsenrath KC, chief executive of the ombudsman, emphasized that public services must be accessible, ensuring deaf patients and their families do not face additional barriers in healthcare.

The trust's deficiency in providing BSL interpreters caused unnecessary distress to the family in the weeks preceding Graham's death in autumn 2021. Graham, originally from Dundee, was admitted to the hospital in June 2021 and later diagnosed with heart failure.