1.

FACILITATE COMMUNICATION FOR PATIENTS WITH LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY (LEP)

• Ensure that COVID-19 patient hotlines are equipped to communicate with patients who speak languages other than English.

• Provide updates on COVID-19 related policies and guidelines in multiple languages.

• Disseminate information to patients with LEP through various platforms to reach as many patients as possible (website, text messaging, etc).

• Develop uniform processes for language translation and distribution across the hospital system.

• Create a registry of multilingual clinical staff to support patient-facing COVID-19 operations.

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2.

ENSURE EQUITABLE ACCESS TO INFORMATION FOR EMPLOYEES WITH LIMITED ENGLISH PROFICIENCY

• Identify and implement mechanisms to share information with employees who may not have regular access to email. 

• Provides updates on COVID-19 related policies and guidelines in multiple languages.

• Coordinate information sessions in multiple languages for employees (e.g., Environmental Services, Food and Nutrition Services, etc).

3.

ENSURE EQUITABLE ACCESS TO INFORMATION AND APPROPRIATE SERVICES FOR PATIENTS WITH DISABILITIES

• Ensure that COVID-19 patient hotlines are equipped to connect patients with disabilities to staff with expertise in the areas needed to address their individual needs.

• Ensure that interpreter services are available for patients who are deaf or hard of hearing.

• Stock surgical masks with clear windows designed to enhance communication, particularly for use with patients who are deaf or hard of hearing.