Op/Ed: We continue to care for every patient, in every language

From the desk of Irene Macyk, PhD, RN, president of South Shore University Hospital

At South Shore University Hospital, our highest priority has always been providing patient-centered care that meets the diverse needs of our community. For many of our patients, language access is an essential part of that care.

We understand that when a hospital updates how these services are delivered — such as transitioning from a longstanding Spanish language interpretation method — it can raise questions and concerns. Those feelings are valid, and we want our community to know that what has not changed is our unwavering commitment to our Spanish-speaking patients and to ensuring everyone receives care that is respectful, compassionate, and accessible.

The hospital’s move from in-person to live, on-demand interpretation services is a step that continues to strengthen accessibility for South Shore University Hospital’s patients. Continuing a system that operates 24/7 ensures that all patients who require language support services receive them immediately and reliably.

This move aligns with the services already offered at all Northwell hospitals, outpatient centers and practices, and numerous medical institutions nationwide. Many of our bilingual team members step up every day to help bridge communication and cultural understanding.

We also have a strong network of Spanish-speaking physicians, supported by a new provider directory to help patients find care in their preferred language.

South Shore University Hospital’s long-standing commitment to our local Spanish-speaking community remains strong even as wider uncertainties in the United States unfold. Our work with the South Shore University Hospital community is rooted in a deep respect for our patients and providing care that goes far beyond what is considered “culturally competent.”

We are embedded in our patients’ lives and invested in their outcomes — not only meeting healthcare and cultural needs, but nurturing partnerships that bind us long after we discharge a patient from the hospital. It’s a model we would hope all hospitals would follow.

Over time, we have built meaningful partnerships with local community and religious leaders and an active network of Spanish-speaking physicians accessible through comprehensive provider directories. These successful initiatives are part of a broader strategy to deliver personalized care by meeting patients where they are.

Programs such as pop-up clinics, local school programs, and healthcare information tables at community events help us reach those who may face barriers to accessing traditional healthcare facilities.

This commitment extends to our internal teams. Many of our staff are not only bilingual, but also live in the communities they serve — a full-circle dedication that South Shore University Hospital holds dear.

The change to the hospital’s language interpretation services is a step toward enhancing the accessibility of healthcare for Spanish-speaking patients and patients who speak over 200 other languages.

Providing this on-demand, around-the-clock support — along with so many in-person programs and resources — is a move toward equity. It’s a privilege to have earned the trust to provide reliable, consistent support when our patients require it, and South Shore University Hospital’s commitment to that level of care and compassion remains unchanged.