This study aims to design and evaluate a communication program to help medical students communicate better with adults who have hearing loss.

The first phase focuses on understanding communication barriers between doctors and patients with hearing loss and assessing how current medical training addresses these challenges. We will gather insights from medical students, doctors, clinical educators, patients with hearing loss, and their family members or friends.

The research will use a mixed-methods approach, including both closed and open-ended questions in an online survey, which can be accessed via a link or QR CODE specific to each group. For more information or to request the survey link, please email: uqlgalva@uq.edu.au.

Eligibility

  • Medical students: Years 1 to 6 from any Australian university;
  • Doctors: From any specialty and years of practice, currently working in Australia;
  • Clinical educators: Health professionals involved in teaching medical students at any Australian university;
  • Patients with hearing loss: Aged 50 or older, residing in Australia;
  • Family members or friends: Aged 18 or older, of people with hearing loss aged 50 or older.

Participant benefits

Medical students, adults with hearing loss, and their family members or friends will receive a $25 token of appreciation for their time and contribution to the study.

Register your interest 

To register your interest and participate, please click on the relevant link below.

This study has been approved by The University of Queensland Human Research Ethics Committee [Approval No.2024/HE001325]