New York Hospitals Now Required to Offer Language Assistance for Patients

All general hospitals in New York State must now implement formal language assistance programs to help patients with limited English proficiency and those with hearing or vision impairments. 

The law requires hospitals to appoint coordinators, train staff, document language preferences, post clear signage and provide qualified interpreters. 

Supporters say the measure will reduce miscommunication, improve patient safety and promote health equity, especially in immigrant and refugee communities.  

https://www.rochesterfirst.com/news/health/hospitals-must-provide-interpreters-under-new-state-law