Deaf Doctor Comes To Rochester

Dr. Carolyn Stern, a deaf doctor, and Dr. Timothy Malia are opening a “deaf-friendly” practice in Brighton, a suburb of Rochester, on March 23. Stern, believed to be one of about 25 deaf physicians in the country, is moving from Chicago, where she’s worked since1990. Although this family medicine practice is targeted at Deaf and hard of hearing patients, they will treat anyone. It will be equipped with TTYs and receptionists who know sign language. Examination rooms will also be equipped with flashing lights that flashes when a doctor enters the room. Stern, 33, a graduate of Northwestern University, specializes in obstetrics. The offices will be in Folsom Medical Center on Brighton-Henrietta Townline Road who is targeting deaf patients because of its proximity to National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID).