Emerson provides access to interpreter services and other accommodations during all hours of operation for patients with hearing or visual impairments, and patients not fluent in English. These services are provided at no cost to patients and those who communicate on behalf of a patient, such as parents, legal guardians, agents under durable powers of attorney for health care, or other family members.
Communication Services Available to People with Hearing Impairments
- American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter Services — If a sign language interpreter is needed or requested, ASL interpretation is provided at no cost.
- Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) — Emerson has VRI devices located in patient registration, the obstetrics department, and the emergency department. Emerson will arrange VRI services as needed in any part of the main campus upon request.
- Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD) — A portable TDD is located in patient registration and the emergency department.
- Closed Caption TV — Many patient rooms are equipped with televisions offering closed captioning. Please use the television remote to access this option or speak with a staff member for assistance.
- Telecommunications Relay Service —MassRelay provides free, confidential communication relay services through Hamilton Relay, including TTY, Voice Carry Over (VCO), Hearing Carry Over (HCO), Speech-to-Speech (STS), Spanish-to- Spanish.
Options for Those with Limited English Proficiency (LEP)
Emerson has language identification cards at all registration sites, admission areas, outpatient areas and nursing units to help identify a person’s language. Patients have the right to have a language interpreter at no cost.
Telephonic Interpreter Services — Emerson uses Language Line Services. This is a nationwide telephonic interpretation service that provides access to trained interpreters in more than 160 languages. It is readily available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and allows staff access to foreign language interpreters by phone within minutes of placing a call. In addition to communicating between staff and patients, this service is also used for document translation and communicating with patients or family at home.
Face-to-Face Interpreters — A face-to-face interpreter is another option available to Emerson patients. When possible, we ask that patients or support persons notify us 24-48 hours in advance to set up appointments. Please contact our care management department at 978-287-3170 to arrange for these services.
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) — Emerson also utilizes VRI devices, which are located in patient registration, the obstetrics department, and the emergency department and other areas as needed.
Questions & Assistance
Please ask a staff member at patient registration or a nursing station of the patient floor for access to communication or interpretive services. If you would like to arrange these services before your visit, please call our care management team at 978-287-3170 during normal business hours or call our switchboard at 978-369-1400 during nights and weekends.
For ADA related concerns, call Emerson ADA Coordinator Rory St. Pierre at 978-287-3385.
