Services for the Deaf

At St. Francis Medical Center, we are committed to providing clear and effective communication to you and your family members.  This is especially important when you are discussing critical medical information with physicians, nurses, and healthcare specialists. 

We want to ensure that all of our patients are able to communicate clearly and comfortably with their caregivers, and to assist our patients who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, we have the following services available:

• Portable telecommunication devices (TDDs):  If you are an in-patient, notify your nurse or caregiver and we will make arrangements to have the TDD brought to your room.  If you are having a procedure or test as an outpatient, let the scheduler know that you will want a TDD during your appointment.  TDDs are provided free of charge to people who are deaf or hard of hearing. 
• Sign-language interpreter:  If you are an inpatient, notify your nurse or caregiver and we will make arrangements for a sign-language interpreter.  If you are having a procedure or test as an outpatient, let the scheduler know that you desire to have a sign-language interpreter present during your procedure or test or appointment.  Sign-language interpreters are provided free of charge to people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Written language:  Some people prefer to use written notes and if this is your preference, let your nurse or caregiver know so we will keep paper and pen available to you at all times.

When you are discussing critical medical information with your doctor, nurse, social worker, counselor, or other healthcare specialist you may request one of the services above.  These discussions may involve:

• Your diagnosis, prognosis, recommendations for treatment or non-treatment.
• Your medical condition, tests, treatment options, medications, surgery, invasive or other procedures.
• Procedures or surgery that requires your informed consent.
• Communications with you during a procedure  or treatment and while you are conscious
• Instructions for medications, post treatment activities, discharge instructions.
• Counseling or group therapy.
• Information about blood, organ or tissue donation.

At St. Francis Medical Center, we place a high priority on our good communication with you.  If we can assist you further or if you have any questions, please contact the Patient Advocate at (310) 900-8573.