Language Services’ primary goal is to provide timely, reliable and high-quality interpreter services to Limited English Proficiency (LEP) and deaf patients. By doing this, they take a situation that could be scary and confusing for this patient population and make it a more comfortable and positive experience.
“Language Services bridges the communication gap between health care personnel and LEP and deaf patients,” said Paris Paleeyang, a Hmong interpreter with the health network. “Medical interpreters are a key element of the health care team with these patients. We act as a conduit between two or more people, and we aid in delivering excellent and culturally sensitive interpretation.”
Chue and Kha Yang, both patients with the health system, have benefited from Paris’ assistance for years. Chue had a kidney transplant in 2008, is an amputee and has diabetes. His wife, Kha, also has diabetes and related symptoms. Both visit Froedtert Hospital several times a year, and they rely on Paris to help them navigate their appointments.
“The interpreters know more words than we do, so when they help us we understand more,” Chue said.
“When we are here, whatever we are ill with, we are grateful Paris can explain it fully to us,” Kha said. “Even when the doctor uses big words, she interprets it so we understand. She knows the language and tells us in a way that we are not scared.”
The Yangs also said Paris’ assistance helps them remember their appointments and find their way around the hospital. Both are grateful that programs through Language Services are available. “You overcome the language barrier when you interpret for us, which helps lessen our stress,” Chue said.
