الاستجابة للصم في الأزمات والكوارث: تحليل مقارن لحق الوصول إلى المعلومات والتواصل في أثناء جائحة كورونا في الكويت

Abstract EN

Objective: the necessary access to information, communication and healthcare during public health crises and disasters is a source of vulnerability among certain minorities.

In view of the coronavirus pandemic, this study aims to shed light on these issues among the deaf and those with hearing loss in the State of Kuwait.

Methods: Potential deficits in knowledge and practice relating to public health advice were investigated using a questionnaire in 35 deaf and 51 hearing individuals.

Subsequently, the roles of the relevant institutions and their adopted strategies was assessed by conducting a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis into the factors behind the observed discrepancy.

Results: the study revealed a number of intrinsic and extrinsic elements which could be exploited or overcome in favor of ensuring inclusivity and meeting the vital needs of the deaf who were found to have lower health literacy under the circumstances.

Conclusion: seeking to involve the relevant authorities and institutions in improving the communication methods and capacities must be a priority to ensure universal access to information during, before and after such events.