SPOTLIGHT: Breaking down the language barrier

An often-overlooked issue in the world of healthcare is patient-doctor communications, particularly if they don't speak the same language. But a new pilot program has found a way to clear the obstacle, boosting communications to improve patient care and medical treatment. A new video and voice application featuring consoles within treatment centers lets physicians access interpreters to help share information with patients. The new Health Care Interpreter Network is currently being piloted by three California hospitals and handles about 3,000 calls each month. Article