Fostering inclusion in medical training: accommodations for hearing loss.

Abstract

This article explores two case reports of healthcare students with hearing impairments in an Italian university and the accommodations provided during their clinical training. The first student, with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, used the Contec Visual Electronic Stethoscope CMS-VE, which amplifies the sound up to 32 times and supports earphones while wearing hearing aids. The second student, with profound bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and cochlear implants, utilized the Littmann CORE Digital Stethoscope, which amplifies the sound up to 40 times and transmits it via Bluetooth. Both students successfully acquired essential clinical skills, demonstrating that tailored technological accommodations can significantly enhance learning outcomes. This article underscores the critical role of early disability detection and the implementation of support strategies by occupational health physicians. These case reports highlight the importance of innovative solutions in promoting inclusion and ensuring equal opportunities in medical education and future workplaces.