Maizie Lovatt

ToolTalk: Final Project

ToolTalk is a toolkit that was developed to help bridge communication gaps between patients and healthcare providers.ToolTalk provides communication strategies and tools that facilitate and assist conversations in clinical contexts using alternative forms of communication. Although we often default to verbal communication, we can benefit from alternative forms of communication that make the experience more inclusive and accessible.The contents of ToolTalk have been developed to be used in many ways to assist communication for a wide range of needs. It has been designed with a broad scope for the purpose and intention of being inclusive; however, we understand that we cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach. Thus, we encourage healthcare providers to use ToolTalk at their discretion and encourage them to consider appropriate contexts in which ToolTalk can be used. Moreover, engagement with a tool or object can differ significantly from person to person. The tools and strategies presented in this toolkit are aids to facilitate communication and help build rapport and understanding. Ultimately, it is up to healthcare providers to choose how they use the items in this box, so we encourage creativity and flexibility.

“I applied to OCAD University in 2019 with this final project in mind. My goal of designing a communication tool was inspired by my uncle Ben, who has Down Syndrome. Before I applied to OCAD, he had been diagnosed with Leukemia. I got to see first-hand how his cancer diagnosis paired with his disability, severely impacted his care and his relationships with healthcare providers. Thus, I was motivated to explore how design can be leveraged to creatively and intentionally bring about change. I am thankful for the assistance from my project partner, Rosa Chu, and my professors through the development of this project. It is surreal to have this dream project finalized and exhibited at GradEx. ”