Blood donation and deaf people
Héma-Québec is making it easier for hearing-impaired persons to give blood by calling upon the services of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters.
Using a text phone relay system, hearing-impaired donors can make an appointment with Héma-Québec to give blood at a pre-established time when an interpreter will be available. The interpreter accompanies the hearing-impaired donor through the entire process, from the registration and interview with a nurse through the actual donation and rest time.
The Héma-Québec employees who are accompanying these donors have received training that enables them to better understand the reality of the hearing impaired.
Blood donation explained to the hearing impaired
In addition to making it easier for hearing-impaired donors to give blood, Héma-Québec, in collaboration with the Fondation des Sourds du Québec (FSQ), has prepared information briefs in ASL.
- Giving blood: what you should know (ASL)
- A few selection criteria... to read before you register (ASL)
The intent of these briefs is to inform hearing-impaired persons about the process and eligibility criteria for giving blood. This information is also available on the FSQ’s website at www.fondationdessourds.net.
Would you like to verify your eligibility to donate blood?
Would you like to donate?