At South Shore University Hospital, our priority has always been to provide patient-centered care that meets the heterogeneous needs of our community. For many of our patients, language access is an essential part of that care.
We understand that when a hospital changes the delivery of these services, for example, changing a Spanish interpretation method that has been in use for a long time, questions and concerns may arise. These are valid feelings, and we want our community to know that one thing has not changed: our tireless commitment to our Spanish-speaking patients and to ensuring that everyone receives respectful, compassionate and accessible care.
The hospital’s shift from in-person interpretation services to real-time, on-demand interpretation services continues to strengthen accessibility for South Shore University Hospital patients. Continuing with a system that operates 24/7 ensures that all patients who need language assistance services receive them promptly and reliably.
This decision aligns with services already offered at all Northwell hospitals, outpatient centers and offices, and at numerous medical institutions nationwide. Many of our bilingual team members step in every day to help bridge gaps in communication and cultural understanding. We also have a strong network of Spanish-speaking physicians, supported by a new provider directory to help patients receive care in the language they prefer.
South Shore University Hospital’s long-standing commitment to our local Spanish-speaking community remains strong, even with growing uncertainties in the United States.
Our work with the South Shore University Hospital community is based on a deep respect for our patients and care that goes beyond what is considered “culturally competent.” We are part of our patients’ lives and care about their outcomes, not only meeting their health care and cultural needs, but also fostering partnerships that unite us long after they are discharged from the hospital. It is a model we hope all hospitals adopt.
Over time, we have built meaningful partnerships with local community and faith leaders, and an active network of Spanish-speaking physicians who you will find available in comprehensive provider directories. These successful initiatives are part of a broader strategy to provide personalized care to patients, adapting to them.
Programs like pop-up clinics, programs at local schools, and healthcare information tables at community events help us reach those who may face barriers to accessing traditional healthcare facilities. This commitment extends to our internal teams. Many of our staff are not only bilingual, but also live in the communities they serve, a full-circle dedication that is invaluable to South Shore University Hospital.
The change in the hospital’s language interpretation services is a development that improves the accessibility of health care for Spanish-speaking patients and for patients who speak another of more than 200 languages.
This on-demand, 24-hour support, along with many more in-person programs and resources, is a step toward equality. It is a privilege to have earned the trust to provide reliable, consistent support when our patients need it, and South Shore University Hospital continues to have the same commitment to that level of care and compassion.
