Pilot Project for Accessible Communication Support for Hard of Hearing Patients Concludes at TUTH

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EDUCAST, The pilot project aimed at providing accessible communication support for Hard of Hearing (HOH) patients concluded successfully with a dissemination program at the Suresh Wagle Hall of Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTH), Maharajgunj. The event was organized jointly by SHRUTI, TUTH, and ZENNANCHO to share the outcomes and future directions of the initiative.

The program began with a welcome speech by SHRUTI’s General Secretary, Ms. Kopila Humagain, who outlined the objectives and significance of the project. SHRUTI President Ms. Neeta Keshary Bhattarai presented an overview of the project, focusing on its outputs, implementation, and sustainability. Dr. Rabindra Pradhananga, Associate Professor at ENT-HNS, elaborated on the implementation of communication support at TUTH, while Ms. Yumiko Minami of ZENNANCHO highlighted the collaborative practices in Japan. Mr. Narayan Sharma from the Department of Health discussed the legislative framework, policies, and plans necessary for inclusive healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, particularly HOH patients.

A significant highlight of the event was the unveiling of the earmark symbol and a guidebook designed to improve healthcare accessibility for the HOH community. These resources were distributed to HOH participants during the program.

Key guests included Dr. Dipesh Shakya from the Department of ENT at Civil Service Hospital and Dr. Sangita Regmi (Chalise), MD ENT Surgeon from KIST Medical College, who shared insights from their institutions. Anita Ghimire, Vice President of the National Federation of Disabled–Nepal, expressed her appreciation for the initiative and emphasized the need for its expansion to other healthcare facilities.

Special guest Mr. Matsuzaki, Chief Representative of JICA Nepal Office, praised the initiative, highlighting its transformative potential for Nepal’s healthcare system. Chief Guest Honorable Ms. Indira Rana Magar, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, commended the collaboration and emphasized the importance of inclusive policies to ensure equitable healthcare access.

The program concluded with closing remarks by Prof. Dr. Ghanshyam Gurung, Executive Director of TUTH, who reiterated the hospital’s commitment to promoting inclusivity in healthcare services. SHRUTI Vice President Mr. Divakar Devkota delivered a vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of all stakeholders.

The event ended with a group photo and a networking session over refreshments, marking a significant milestone in improving healthcare equity for the Hard of Hearing community in Nepal. This pilot project sets the stage for broader implementation and collaboration in the future.