Language Assistance & Interpreter Services
Services to help communicate your health care needs
Personalized Interpreter Services
At Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham, we ensure clear communication between you and your care team. We provide language assistance no matter what language you or your loved ones speak.
It’s our goal is to promote equal access to health care by facilitating effective communication and cross-cultural understanding. We do this by creating trust and rapport between you, your family and your care team.
You have the right to fully understand your condition and care plan. Our language assistance program helps you feel comfortable and confident in your care. This can increase your quality of care and your patient satisfaction during your hospital stay.
Types of Language Assistance
Our interpreter services are available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. There is no cost for this service.
To request an interpreter, ask your doctor or nursing staff. For the hearing impaired, call the telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) at 800-439-0183.
Interpreter services are available by video chat or telephone. Sign language is also available 24/7 by video service for the hearing impaired. In-person assistance can be provided with advance notice by contacting the office of the Chief Nurse at 781-453-5252.
We provide language assistance for non-English speaking and hearing-impaired patients and families, including American Sign Language. We offer teletypewriter (TTY) devices when needed.
We offer professional interpreter services for patients who are:
- Non-English speaking
- Limited-English speaking
- Deaf
- Hard of hearing
These free interpreter services are provided:
- In-person (for both spoken and sign language)
- Over-the-phone
Experts in Medical Interpreting
Our medical interpreters speak your language and understand your culture. They ensure clear communication between you, your family and your care team. Your interpreter keeps your personal health information private with confidentiality and respect. They will not offer their own advice or opinions.
