Reasonable Accommodations
ODHH provides services to enable effective communication between DSHS employees and deaf, hard of hearing and deaf-blind clients. These services are also available to other state and local government agencies. Services are available in accordance to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
A state wide contract for interpreter service is available so individuals using sign language can communicate with government employees and its contractors.
Assistive Listening Systems (ALS)
Assistive Listening System (ALS) refers to equipment that can eliminate background noise and acoustics to help improve the usability of hearing aids and cochlear implants. ALS can be used for conferences, courtrooms, and classrooms. ALS can be used for individual, group and public meetings.
Communication Access Real-Time Translation (CART)
A state wide contract for Communication Access in Real-Time Translation (CART) provides real-time captioning services for individuals, groups, and public meetings.
Social Services and Regional Service Centers
These contracted services are available through the Regional Service Centers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing located in seven offices throughout the State of Washington. ODHH also provides similar services except case management and support service provider.
Case managers work directly with clients who have a hearing loss and their families. Case managers work with other organizations to ensure services are available and accessible on behalf of clients in need of assistance or services.
Government agencies, nonprofit organizations and businesses can request free education and training opportunities to improve their accessibility to ensure effective communication with people who are deaf, hard of hearing and deaf-blind.
Information and referrals to resources are available upon requests made by the general public.
Outreach increases public awareness about hearing loss and the available resources.
Support Service Provider (SSP)
SSPs are trained, paid sighted guides who provide visual and environmental information so that Deaf-Blind people can live independently.
Contact Us
If you need help, want to get involved or your needs are not met; please do let us know how we can better serve you! You can take the customer satisfaction survey to let us know whether you are satisfied. We encourage you to e-mail, call, mail, fax and visit us!