ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze published evidence on modes of communication between healthcare professionals and patients with hearing loss. METHODS: MEDLINE/PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, ScienceDirect, and Thai Journals Online Complete databases were searched. A meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model. Data on the prevalence and types of communication between healthcare professionals and patients with any extent of hearing loss were extracted. RESULTS: Twenty studies were included. Using a hearing aid (pooled prevalence, 57.4%; 95% CI, 11.4%-103.4%, N = 3, I2 = 99.33) and gestures (pooled prevalence = 54.8%, 95%CI: 17.4% to 92.1%, N = 7, I2 = 99.68) were the most commonly reported modes of communication. Few healthcare professionals could use sign language, and limited access to qualified interpreters was common. CONCLUSION: Communication barriers exist. Qualified sign language interpreters and assistive technology should be used to improve communication.