Parkland Health answers call for for diverse interpretation services

A 40 percent increase in the demand for interpretation services over the last two years was a driving factor in Parkland Health & Hospital System's installation of Language Line Phones in every patient room. The Dallas, Texas-based hospital system hopes to improve care to patients and "contain costs" with its newest addition, according to Deborah Moore, Director of Patient.

"Parkland is dedicated to the health and well-being of our patients, no matter what languages they speak," Moore said. "Over the phone interpretation is a critical link in the communications chain."

The system helps patients who speak very little English by offering three-way communication between the medical providers, an interpreter and the patient through the use of a quick-dial, dual-handset phone. While Spanish, Vietnamese and Korean are among the top languages requested by such patients, more than 175 languages are offered.

To spread support for breast cancer awareness, Parkland also is installing 250 "Speak Pink" phones -- phones that are distinctively pink -- throughout its Women's Services areas. Any proceeds from the use of the pink phones will be donated to the American Breast Cancer Foundation. 

To learn more about these Language Line phones:
- check out this press release

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