Not really Disney-related, but need advice re: work and hearing impairment

[apirateslifeforme]

I have been at my current job for almost 3 years now. I believe that I'm doing a very good job, going on my reviews and the emails from the home office to my supervisor. When I first interviewed with the director of operations, I mentioned my hearing impairment. I am completely deaf in my right ear, and have about 30% hearing in the left. As a result, we decided that when the announcement regarding my hiring went out (via email, as they always welcome new hires), it would also be noted that communication with me needed to be done via email or in person, as I can read lips (I also speak, having lost my hearing around age 18 due to illness).

Well, 3 years down the road, I'm having problems now. I was told that I have to have a phone on my desk, for whatever reason...I was given an enhanced receiver, which does not work well (lots of buzzing and static; I cannot tell what is being said). So I have reiterated my position many times, turned off the phone, placed a message in my email signature that says "Please respond via email or in person only," and had a kind co-worker record a message on my voice mail stating the same message. Every morning, my phone has been turned back on, and some people still call me or demand that I call them! When I explain (in email) why I cannot speak to them over the phone, I often get answered with something along the lines of "You know, this is really inconvenient and time-consuming for me. Please call me or I will consider the issue settled."

I really like my job. Most people have been accomodating...it's just the select few. But it's also very frustrating...is there anything else I should be doing? I don't want to run to the labor department, crying "ADA violation!" or anything like that...it seems that some people just refuse to believe that someone my age might have a small, non-visible disability, and therefore won't make a small accomodation for it.

Sorry so long, but I appreciate any help that anyone can offer. Thanks!

 

[Talking Hands]

First is who is demanding you use the telephone? Your superiors or those who are equals. Who decided to put the phone in. Since you cannot hear on this phone even if it is amplified request a TTD. Then these people can call and so can you by using relay. Yes I know it is a PIA but they don't and will never understand until they are forced to use it. Then they may realize take email is a better option.
I can think of reasons a hearing person may not want to use email. It is a written document being a prime one. No documentation on a phone call. Easily denied.
If someone states that if you do not call they will consider it done deal quietly tell them you will email them or set up a time to speak with them in person. That it takes more time to clear up the miscommunication that occurs during a phone call unless they are willing to call through relay so you can be clear as to what they are saying.
And don't answer the phone except with the tty.