Bridging Language Gaps and Enhancing Healthcare Access Through Our Free Interpreter Services

Effective communication is a cornerstone of quality healthcare, and we make every effort to ensure our patients have access to care in their native language. Our commitment to inclusivity and equity includes free interpreter services to meet the diverse needs of our patients. Here’s a closer look at how these services are making a difference.

Diverse Translation Services

We offer many in-house interpreters who speak many languages. The complete list includes:

• Spanish
• Arabic
• Kurdish
• Burmese
• Karen
• Thai
• Vietnamese

This diversity in language support reflects Lincoln’s status as a welcoming community for refugees and immigrants. The city, designated as a ‘refugee-friendly’ location since 1970 and ranked among the Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities in America, is home to a vibrant population from over 40 countries. The need for strong translation services is crucial, and so we also augment our in-house translation services with telephone and video conferencing for languages not provided in-house.

What Interpreters Do at Bluestem Health

Our interpreters play an important role in facilitating effective communication between patients and providers. Their tasks include:

• Responding to Appointment Calls: Interpreters help patients schedule their appointments, ensuring they understand the process and requirements.
• Providing In-Person Services: At the clinic, interpreters assist with real-time translation during medical consultations.
• Handling Follow-Up Calls: They also follow up with patients to relay lab results and other essential medical information, making sure nothing is lost in translation.

Meet Faysal: A Dedicated Translator Making a Difference

One of our standout translators here is Faysal, who has been with the organization since December 2015. Originally from Northern Iraq, Faysal moved to Lincoln with his family after working with the U.S. military. He is passionate about his role, describing it as a way to connect people and bridge cultural and linguistic gaps. Faysal’s dedication allows him and his colleagues to assist 10 to 50 people daily, offering translation services across medical, dental, behavioral health, and patient support.

Why Translation Services Matter

According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) face numerous challenges, including:

• Increased likelihood of reporting poor health
• Higher rates of declining needed care
• Increased risk of leaving the hospital against medical advice
• Missed follow-up appointments
• Greater risk of drug complications

Without proper translation, patients are more likely to undergo unnecessary diagnostic tests, experience misdiagnoses, and face higher hospital readmission rates. Avoiding these types of problems is exactly why we offer the help of interpreters.

The Impact of Translation Services on Equity

In a state like Nebraska, which ranks fifth in refugee resettlement per capita, translation services are essential for ensuring equitable healthcare. Our commitment to offering these services reflects the dedication we have to serve the diverse needs of our community.

How to Access Interpreter Services

Patients and community members are encouraged to learn more about the extensive free interpreter services we offer here at Bluestem Health. To schedule an appointment or get more information, visit our website, check out our Facebook page, or call us at 402-476-1455.

The interpreter services we offer are a testament to the commitment we have in providing high-quality, equitable healthcare to all members of the community, regardless of language barriers. With a team of experienced interpreters and a broad range of services, we aim to make a difference in the lives of our patients.