Language Services

All patients and family members have the right to clear, complete and understandable information. Yale New Haven Health System ensures accurate communication between patients and providers, helping you participate fully in your care.  

We offer free interpretation and translation services for patients and family members who are more comfortable communicating in a language other than English, or those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.

Please let your doctor, provider and/or admitting account representative know about your communication needs, in advance if possible. If you need an interpreter while you are staying in the hospital, please talk to any member of your care team.

Interpreter Services (Spoken)

For those who prefer to use a language other than English when discussing their healthcare or who have limited English proficiency, Language Services are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Please inform a staff member, who will assist you in obtaining services.

Translation Services (Written material)

We provide patients with written translation services for important medical documents, patient education materials and discharge instructions. To request this service, please ask a member of your care team to contact Language Services. 

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Assistance

We provide American Sign Language interpretation via in person or video remote interpreting (VRI). We also provide resources such as assistive listening devices and clear masks. Please ask a staff member for assistance.

If you are in need of any of the services mentioned above, please inform a staff member who will then make the appropriate request.