Health disparities and health literacy challenges experienced by individuals with hearing loss: A scoping review.

Abstract

The purpose of this scoping review is to explore health disparities and health literacy challenges encountered by U.S. adults with hearing loss when trying to seek specialized care and access to medical devices such as hearing aids. The Arksey and O'Malley (2005) York methodology was used for this review: (1) identifying research questions; (2) searching for relevant studies; (3) selecting studies relevant to the research questions; (4) charting the data; (5) collating, summarizing, and reporting results. A total of 52 articles were retained for analysis. Significant associations were reported between health literacy and health disparities when assessing the relationship between health literacy and poor health outcomes, social support surrounding health, communication with health professionals, accessibility of health information, immediacy of care, income, healthcare costs, age, and gender. Findings will inform evidence-based strategies to increase equitable access to affordable and quality care among patients with hearing loss.