Tyler Pugeda's Interview

Description: Tyler Pugeda's interview reveals his inspiring journey as a deaf advocate, medical professional, and researcher. Motivated by personal experiences, he discusses his drive to pursue medicine and address healthcare disparities for the Deaf community. Tyler emphasizes the importance of accessibility, patient-centered care, and diversity in medicine. He shares insights into accent bias and his plans to advocate for change. Learning American Sign Language (ASL) played a pivotal role in his growth, enabling effective communication and fostering a sense of belonging. Tyler's story is a testament to overcoming challenges and driving positive transformations for a more inclusive society.

Questions and Answers:

☆What inspired you to pursue medicine? What inspired me to pursue medicine was a culmination of life events and experiences that ignited a passion within me to help alleviate suffering and make a difference in people's lives. It was the loss of my dear aunt to breast cancer. Her battle with this devastating disease made me realize how fragile life is - and how much suffering people can endure. My aunt's passing left me with an unshakable determination to help others. I wanted to do more than just alleviate suffering - I wanted to have a direct impact on people's lives. I was drawn to medicine because I saw it as a tangible way to make a meaningful difference. I believe that there is no greater satisfaction than the feeling when you see someone recover from an illness or a trauma with your help.

As I continued on my academic journey, I found myself drawn to activities that involved contribution and community service. I began tutoring students, taking on leadership roles, and volunteering at local events. All of these experiences helped shape my growth and development as a person while also providing me with a sense of connectedness with others.

My undergraduate years taught me to pursue truth, justice, and personal growth. My major in philosophy taught me to ask the probing questions needed for understanding life's mysteries, while my internship at a civil rights advocacy organization provided invaluable experience on how best to advocate for those without a voice. Through education, research presentations, and various leadership and volunteer activities, I honed my effective communication skills, paving the way for my eventual pursuit of medicine.

As a physician, my ultimate goal is to use all I've learned in life to make a meaningful impact on others. Medicine is not just about treating diseases - it is about connecting with people on a deep, personal level. It means understanding patients' fears and anxieties, and providing them with the support and care they need. It means being there for them in their darkest moments and celebrating their triumphs. Medicine is a calling – a deep-seated desire to serve others and make a positive impact on the world.

In conclusion, my aunt's passing inspired me to pursue medicine. Her story drove me to seek out ways to alleviate suffering, and medicine offered me the opportunity to do just that. I am grateful for the many opportunities that have brought me to where I am today, and I am excited to continue on this journey as a physician who is committed to making a positive impact on people's lives.

☆Since our audience is mostly high school students, what was high school for you like? Instead of the typical teenage drama shows I expected to become real in the hallways, conversations about college aspirations were the norm. It was a challenging academic atmosphere that demanded nothing but the best - pushing us all to our limits.

Growing up in a supportive environment that fostered success, I was painfully aware of the high bar set by my peers. It was a stark reminder of the immense resources available to them, like private tutors, which I did not have access to. It was frustrating, but it also led to a momentous self-reflection on how far I had come without any additional help. It sharpened my self-reliance, but it still left me feeling apprehensive about competing with my classmates.

But I was determined to take my education into my own hands. I dove into comprehensive grammar instruction books and read novels for pleasure, committing myself to improving my reading and writing skills. And it paid off. By junior year, I felt confident enough to take more advanced classes, and even surpassed my own expectations.

High school was tough, but it was also the perfect environment to push ourselves beyond what we thought was possible. It challenged us in ways we never thought possible, setting us up for success in the future.

In general, could you describe what your experiences with the medical system are like? Do you feel like you are pressured to be hearing? As somebody who is deaf and relies on accessibility accommodations, my experiences with the medical system have been less than optimal. Oftentimes, I find that healthcare professionals are not properly trained or equipped to communicate with me in a way that is accessible and respectful of my needs. This can create a frustrating and disempowering dynamic in which I feel like my needs are not being prioritized or understood. Furthermore, my experiences with cochlear implants have been marred by the pressure that I feel to conform to hearing norms. While I understand that medical professionals may view cochlear implants as a tool for improving my quality of life, I often feel like the decision to undergo the procedure is being made for me rather than with me. This can be incredibly alienating and make me feel like my experiences of deafness are not being fully valued or understood. In short, my experiences with the medical system have been marked by a lack of accessibility and a pervasive pressure to be hearing. This needs to change, and I urge healthcare professionals to prioritize accessibility and patient-centered care when working with individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing.

☆What is one disparity in the medical system that the Deaf community faces that you think should be addressed? Despite legal requirements for medical facilities to provide equal access to healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, there are still disparities that exist in the medical system for the Deaf community. One such disparity is the lack of qualified and designated sign language interpreters in medical settings.

The provision of sign language interpreters is crucial for Deaf patients to receive appropriate medical care. As the Deaf community has its own culture and language, Deaf patients may require specialized interpretation services from a qualified interpreter who is fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) and understanding of Deaf culture. However, many medical facilities often rely on untrained or underqualified interpreters, or even family members, to provide translation services.

This lack of qualified interpreters can have serious consequences for Deaf patients. Misunderstanding or misinterpretation of medical information can lead to incorrect diagnoses, inappropriate medical interventions, and overall ineffective healthcare outcomes. Furthermore, a misinterpretation of a patient's medical information due to an unqualified interpreter can even lead to malpractice.

Moreover, the cost of providing qualified sign language interpreters in medical settings can be prohibitive for Deaf patients. Some insurance providers may not cover interpretation services or may only cover a limited number of visits. This can lead to Deaf patients facing additional financial burdens for accessing necessary medical care, which further contributes to the disparities already present in the healthcare system.

In order to address this disparity, medical facilities must prioritize hiring and training qualified sign language interpreters who are well-versed in Deaf culture and communication. Additionally, insurance providers must ensure that interpretation services are covered in full for Deaf patients, as required by law. By taking steps to address the lack of interpreters and the financial burdens associated with accessing these services, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive healthcare system for the Deaf community.

☆Do you feel like medical school is accessible for aspiring Deaf doctors? How do you feel about the environment at Johns Hopkins and other schools you’ve attended? As we consider the accessibility of medical school for aspiring Deaf doctors, it's important to recognize that there are immense challenges that need to be addressed. However, with the right support and accommodations, Deaf individuals can overcome these obstacles and pursue their dreams of becoming medical professionals.

Currently, only a handful of medical schools in the United States have programs specifically designed to support Deaf students. These programs provide access to sign language interpreters, real-time captioning, note-takers, and other services that are critical for success in medical school. One such program is located at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, which has been recognized as a leader in accommodating Deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Despite these efforts, however, many schools still lack the resources and knowledge necessary to provide equal access to Deaf individuals who wish to pursue this path.

Johns Hopkins has much work to do in creating a more inclusive environment. Although accommodations were made available, many faculty members and fellow students lacked awareness about the importance of these accommodations, which created unnecessary barriers for Deaf individuals. This highlights the importance of not only providing necessary accommodations, but also educating the broader community about the needs of Deaf students.

Medical school can be an incredibly rigorous and challenging experience for anyone, and it's imperative that we work to make it more accessible for Deaf individuals who are passionate about the field. We must continue to advocate for increased support and awareness, as well as highlight successful programs that serve as a model for others to follow. Together, we can work towards a more inclusive medical field that values the unique perspectives and contributions of all individuals, regardless of their hearing status.

☆As a Fulbright Fellow, have you noticed any difference in medical treatment or care between the United States and Germany? While the United States may have more funding allocated towards research, care and innovation, it is clear that Germany places a stronger emphasis on patient-centered care. In Germany, medical treatment is often geared towards the individual patient's needs and preferences. Doctors take the time to truly understand their patients' concerns and collaborate with them in their medical decision-making. Healthcare in Germany operates under a system of universal coverage, which ensures that all citizens are entitled to medical treatment regardless of their socioeconomic status. This guarantee of essential healthcare services ensures that no one is left behind and that every individual receives equal opportunity for medical care. On the other hand, the United States healthcare system tends to prioritize profit-driven medical care, where expensive procedures are often pushed without taking into account the patient's long-term well-being. Additionally, the cost of healthcare in the United States remains a significant financial burden for many individuals, especially those without adequate insurance coverage.

Moreover, Germany is not only focused on curing health issues but also on preventive medicine. Public health campaigns are prolific and well-funded and emphasize proactive measures, such as healthy eating and regular exercise, which help avoid medical issues. The result is that German citizens are healthier and less dependent on medical intervention.

In conclusion, while the United States may have a greater amount of funding dedicated to research and innovation, Germany provides equal and personalized medical care to its citizens. By prioritizing preventive medicine and focusing on patient-centered care, Germany has created a healthcare system that not only saves money but also effectively treats and prevents health issues.

☆What made you embrace your deafness? What made me embrace my deafness was not the constant pressure to fit into a world designed for those who could hear, but rather my own self-discovery and understanding of the unique strengths and perspectives that come with being deaf. I realized that my deafness does not limit me, but rather provides me with a distinct perspective and skill set that sets me apart from hearing individuals.

As a deaf person, I have learned to listen with my eyes - to be aware of body language, visual cues, and facial expressions in order to understand the nuances of communication. I have developed a heightened sense of empathy and intuition, honing my ability to read people's emotions and truly understand their needs. My deafness has taught me the importance of patience and perseverance, as I have faced numerous challenges and obstacles throughout my life. However, it has also taught me the value of resilience and determination, as I have overcome these challenges to become a successful advocate for the deaf community. Embracing my deafness has allowed me to recognize and celebrate the unique qualities that make me who I am. By rejecting the limited and oppressive views placed on individuals with disabilities, I have been able to reclaim my own power and autonomy. My deafness is not something to be fixed or cured, but rather something that is an integral part of my identity and has contributed to my personal and professional growth. Through my experiences as a tutor, mentor, and advocate, I have come to understand that embracing one's differences and unique perspectives is essential to achieving success and fostering true inclusivity. By celebrating what makes us different, rather than trying to conform to a narrow and exclusive societal norm, we can create a world that is truly equitable and just for all individuals. As a deaf individual, I have learned to embrace my deafness as a source of strength and resilience, and I hope to inspire others to do the same.

☆ What do you think young people can do about barriers against the Deaf community? Being a generation that is adept with technology, they can utilize social media platforms to spread awareness about the challenges faced by the Deaf community. By sharing videos, articles, and personal stories, they can effectively educate others about the importance of inclusive policies and accessible services for the Deaf community.

Additionally, young people can participate in local Deaf events and workshops to broaden their understanding of sign language and Deaf culture. By doing so, they can become advocates for the Deaf community and help promote inclusivity and diversity.

It is important for young people to understand that the Deaf community is a vibrant and diverse part of our society. By taking action to break down barriers, they can help to ensure that the Deaf community is given equal access to education, employment, and other opportunities. We must recognize that being Deaf is not a disability, but it is simply a way of life that we should celebrate and support. Young people have the power to make a positive impact and support the Deaf community in their journey towards full inclusion and equality.

☆How can we make schools and hospitals more accessible? What do you hope to see more of? How did you accomplish this at JHU? As we move towards a more inclusive society, it is critical that we prioritize accessibility in all areas of life, including education and healthcare. Schools and hospitals must acknowledge the challenges that people face in accessing their services and take proactive steps to remove these barriers. One effective way to make schools and hospitals more accessible is by adopting a people-centered approach to accessibility. This involves centralizing systems and processes to streamline access coordination, simplifying complicated procedures, and addressing cultural barriers. It also means providing easy payment options for access services to ease the financial burden on individuals with disabilities, including the "deaf tax." At JHU, stakeholders and I were able to accomplish this by initiating discussions with administrators about improving accessibility. By advocating for closed captioning services across the university's recordings and lectures, we were able to ensure that all students could access and benefit from the educational tools available at JHU regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. Through collaboration with the Student Disability Office and the tireless efforts of my biology professor, we were able to provide closed captioning services in Spring 2019, which received glowing recommendations from end-of-semester survey results. Furthermore, my professor went above and beyond by hiring professionals to add subtitles to panproto/in-class recordings, pre-class videos, and other in-class materials within General Biology. However, the survey research also revealed that there are still students who are unaware of the availability of such services.

This highlights the need for schools and hospitals to prioritize accessibility and make it known to all users and stakeholders. By doing so, we can ensure that everyone has equal access to the resources and opportunities available, which is crucial for promoting equity and inclusion.

In conclusion, making schools and hospitals more accessible demands a concerted effort from all stakeholders. It requires a people-centered approach that prioritizes inclusivity, collaboration, and proactive measures to remove barriers. Let us all commit to fostering a culture of accessibility and inclusivity to ensure that no one is left behind in our educational and healthcare systems.

☆From your perspective, why is it important for there to be diverse doctors? How do you plan to advocate for your patients? It is imperative that there is a diverse group of doctors to provide quality healthcare to all communities. Patients from diverse backgrounds may experience different health issues that require a cultural understanding of the patient's background. It's a well-known fact that minority groups are more likely to experience health disparities than their majority counterparts. This could be due to, among other things, the more significant barriers they face in accessing health care. Diverse doctors are essential because they have an in-depth understanding of the patient's cultural background that influences how they react to various health issues.

As an advocate for my patients, I plan to approach healthcare with an inclusive mindset. I will take the necessary time to understand their fears, concerns, and past experiences, listen actively to them, validate their feelings and provide comprehensive healthcare plans tailored to their specific needs. I will also educate them on the importance of preventive care, provide health information that's easily understandable, and encourage them to engage in their healthcare decision making. Ultimately, equitable health care should be a top priority for all health care providers. The provision of high-quality, accessible, and culturally responsive healthcare is critical, now more than ever.

Your career is really inspiring; you’ve overcome so many obstacles and yet accomplished so much in both research and advocacy. What do you think is the next step for you? My next step is to delve deeper into the root causes of accent bias and its pervasive impact in the workplace. This is not just an issue at Harvard Medical School, but rather a widespread problem that affects countless industries across the globe. Studies have consistently shown that accent bias can lead to discrimination in hiring practices, promotions, and even day-to-day interactions with colleagues.

It is essential to note that accent bias does not just affect non-native English speakers. People with regional accents, such as those from the American South or UK, can also face discrimination and bias in the workplace. This perpetuates a societal hierarchy that values certain accents and devalues others.

As a deaf individual with a deaf accent, I have personally experienced the harsh reality of accent bias during job interviews. This is why I am committed to raising awareness and promoting change. I applied for and received the Innovation Fund from Harvard Culture Lab, with the goal of producing a documentary that showcases the stories of people with diverse accents at Harvard. I will also lead focus groups to engage in discussions on how to minimize the negative impact of accent bias.

The leaders in diversity, equity, and inclusion at Harvard have expressed their support for this endeavor. They recognize that accent bias is a hindrance to creating a culture of belonging and must be addressed head-on.

In summary, accent bias presents a significant obstacle in achieving equitable hiring practices, disproportionately impacting individuals based on factors such as gender, race, ability, age, socioeconomic status, geographic origins, and sexual orientation. The far-reaching consequences of addressing accent bias cannot be overstated. I would like to clarify that my advocacy extends beyond people with disabilities. I am passionate about advocating for everyone, including foreign professionals, women, individuals of different ages, and those with lower income, among others. My focus is on bettering humanity as a whole.

☆Your commitment to learning American Sign Language (ASL) was pivotal in opening new avenues of communication and understanding. How has your proficiency in ASL influenced your academic and personal growth? Proficiency in ASL has provided me with the necessary communication skills to interact with the deaf community. ASL has given me access to information, language, and culture that would have otherwise been limited. The language has allowed me to communicate more effectively with my peers, instructors, and colleagues.

Most importantly, ASL has become an integral part of my identity as a deaf person. It has helped me develop a sense of belonging and community that I had never experienced before. Learning ASL paved the way for me to immerse myself in deaf culture, to embrace my deaf identity, and to celebrate my uniqueness as an individual.

Moreover, ASL has played a vital role in my academic trajectory. ASL opened my eyes to a new way of learning that I had not previously considered. It has enabled me to access information and materials that were once inaccessible. As a result of this newfound access, I was able to catch up with my hearing peers, excel academically, and achieve academic success beyond my wildest dreams.

ASL also provided me with a solution for navigating academic challenges. With ASL, I can communicate more effectively with my teachers, ask questions, and gain clarification. Academic success no longer felt beyond my reach, and I could finally break free from the limitations that many people imagined my hearing loss would bring.

In essence, ASL has become the centerpiece of my academic journey and personal growth. It has enabled me to push beyond the boundaries, excel academically, and embrace my deaf identity. To anyone who doubts the transformative power of ASL, my story stands as a testament that with a little determination, hard work, and the right support network, nothing is impossible.