HospitalInspections.org

Based on a review of hospital policy and procedures, 5 open and 7 closed records, it was determined that the hospital failed to provide accommodation for deaf patients 24/7 when it failed to make a provision for deaf interpreters between the hours of 9 pm to 9 am.

Review of the hospital procedures for deaf patients revealed two companies who could provide in-person interpreter services. One deaf patient was noted on the geriatric unit who received in-person interpreter services from 9 am through 9 pm daily. However, it was determined that after 9 pm, no deaf interpreter services were available. While the hospital was working on this disparity of accommodation, no specific process had been installed at the time of survey. Therefore, the hospital failed to meet regulatory requirements for the accommodation of deaf patients.