Perceptions of adults with hearing impairment regarding the promotion of trust in hearing healthcare service delivery. (January 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Preminger, Jill E.; Oxenbøll, Maria; Barnett, Margaret B.; Jensen, Lisbeth D.; Laplante-Lévesque, Ariane
• Is Part Of: International journal of audiology. Volume 54:Number 1(2015:Jan.)
• Page Start: 20
• Page End: 28
• Publication Date: 2015-01
• Subjects: Audiology -- Periodicals; Hearing disorders -- Periodicals; Deafness -- Prevention -- Periodicals; Hearing Disorders -- Periodicals; Hearing -- Periodicals; 617.8
• DOI: 10.3109/14992027.2014.939776
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1499-2027

Abstract

<abstract> <title>Abstract</title> <p> <italic>Objective:</italic> This paper describes how trust is promoted in adults with hearing impairment within the context of hearing healthcare (HHC) service delivery. <italic>Design:</italic> Data were analysed from a previously published descriptive qualitative study that explored perspectives of adults with hearing impairment on hearing help-seeking and rehabilitation. <italic>Study sample:</italic> Interview transcripts from 29 adults from four countries with different levels of hearing impairment and different experience with the HHC system were analysed thematically. <italic>Results:</italic> Patients enter into the HHC system with service expectations resulting in a preconceived level of trust that can vary from low to high. Relational competence, technical competence, commercialized approach, and clinical environment (relevant to both the clinician and the clinic) influence a patient's resulting level of trust. <italic>Conclusions:</italic> Trust is evolving rather than static in HHC: Both clinicians and clinics can promote trust. The characteristics of HHC that engender trust are: practicing good communication, supporting shared decision making, displaying technical competence, offering comprehensive hearing rehabilitation, promoting self-management, avoiding a focus on hearing-aid sales, and offering a professional clinic setting.</p> </abstract>