Patient Educational Information

“Medical translation and interpretation is not an issue just for the actual medical encounter. It also impacts appointment scheduling, follow-up care, filling a prescription, arranging medical transportation, and being able to communicate in a medical emergency.”

-Manager, Physician’s Office

You are responsible for your own healthcare. When visiting a healthcare provider, make sure you understand everything the doctor, pharmacist, nurse, or other healthcare professional is saying and follow their instructions. If you do not understand and if you are uncomfortable with the instructions, let your healthcare provider know right away.

Keep a medical record if you are a friend or family member of a person who is LEP (Limited English Proficient) or do not speak and understand English very well yourself:

  • Read a copy of the patient rights brochure and use the information to make sure you understand your healthcare provider and your healthcare provider understands you. (link to brochures)
  • Carry and use an ‘I speak card’.
  • When you or a friend schedule an appointment for you, request an interpreter. Do not use a family member, particularly a child, to interpret for you.
  • Ask for written instructions for any medications prescribed to you in the language with which you are most familiar.
  • Ask the pharmacist to explain how to use the medications the right way. Repeat the instructions back to them to make sure you understand.
  • Ask about how and when you have to pay when you schedule an appointment. In most cases, you will not be required to pay the entire bill the day of service. If you have questions, or need to make payment arrangements, ask the healthcare provider or clinic manager.

If you are denied access to a qualified medical interpreter, or feel that the interpreter provided did not respect your rights as a patient:

  • Notify your doctor and/or the clinic manager immediately.
  • Contact the Office of Human Rights or Office of Minority Health or both. ? (add phone number and URL
  • Contact the Nebraska Ombudsman. (add phone number and URL)