Page 23 - Rehab Orientation Manual 4 04 19-updated_Neat

Facilitating Communication with Patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) and
Speech/Hearing Impairments

The following describes the process that ensure that information is provided to patient in plain
language and in a manner that is accessible and timely at no cost to the patients

The initial assessment will determine the patient’s communication ability. Staff should
communicate with patients in a language or form appropriate to meet the patient’s needs by
using special devices, accessible websites, interpreters or other communication aides.

1. All patients will receive a copy of:

a. Patient Bill of Rights and Complaint/Grievance Process

b. Advance Directives Information

c. Notice of Non-Discrimination

These forms will be available in English, and other languages as appropriate. If there is
need to interpret these forms in another language, an interpreter will be obtained. For all
other patients speaking languages other than English, staff will secure an interpreter to
interpret forms and documents relevant to the care of the patient.

2. For visually impaired patients:

a. The admitting clinician will read aloud all documents normally provided to the patient
and ascertain that the person has heard and understands what was read. The admitting
clinician (SOC) documents this in the clinical record.

b. A clinician will make available large print patient information that may be applicable
to the disease process, i.e. colostomy, diabetic care, heart disease.

3. For hearing impaired patients:

a. The admitting clinician ascertains the patient preferred methods of communication, i.e.
paper and pencil, lip reading, or sign language.

b. If the preferred method is sign language, the admitting clinician or clinician will
contact the resource providing a sign language interpreter and establish a plan for
ongoing communications. (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf)

c. Obtaining the use of a Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TTY

i. Hearing or communicatively impaired individuals who have access to a TTY
instrument can call the Relay Service to enable them to communicate with the
personnel of the organization.