NUMC Joins All Language Video Interpreter Network

President and CEO of the NuHealth System Arthur A. Gianelli has announced the launch of the 'All Language Video Interpreter Network' through its contract with Paras and Associates at the , the first and only site in the Northeast region to provide immediate access to language interpreting via video and telephone. Paras and Associates will host and manage the video/voice call center services.

"This is a big leap forward for the NuHealth System, representing a very different model than most hospitals around this region use," Gianelli said. "It will also reduce costs, optimize the time of our interpreters and actually get us paid by other hospitals in the network who use our NUMC-based interpreters."

The process starts with a mobile video unit being wheeled to the point of care with the clinician pushing a button and initiating the interpreter request, which is first routed to interpreters who work at NUMC. If NUMC interpreters are not available, the request is routed to a regional network with other hospitals.

Services to test, support and train interpreters are also available through certified educational institutions, reducing the administration required to support a staff of interpreters.

 "We are excited to welcome Nassau University Medical Center to our All Languages Video Interpreter Network," Melinda Paras, President and CEO of Paras and Associates, said. "This hospital has a great reputation as a teaching institution with a deep commitment to serving Nassau County in all its economic and cultural diversity."

The benefits of the program are vast. First of all, it is very easy to use. A press of a button provides access to the user 24 hours per day, and 365 days per year. Also, no longer to patients have to wait for interpreters to travel to the point of care. This also helps keep the operation cost efficient for all parties involved.

"The instant 24/7 access to trained healthcare interpreters, including Sign Language, will result in cost efficiencies through the collaboration with other hospitals," Gianelli said. "Through the Paras video interpreter network, I am confident that we will achieve demonstrable results in improved patient safety, enhanced quality of care and a better patient experience for patients of the Nassau University Medical Center."