Lost In Translation: Small, Rural Providers Struggle Under ‘Burdensome’ Language Rule
The aim of federal rules requiring hospitals, doctors and dentists to provide free interpretation and translation services for people who don’t speak English is to avoid fatal tragedies that can occur when important medical information isn't communicated correctly. But many providers find the rule unnecessary.
Stateline:
Preventing Vital Health Care Information From Being Lost In Translation
New federal rules requiring thousands of hospitals, doctors and dentists to provide free interpretation and translation services for people who don’t speak English aim to prevent tragedies like these, which were among those included in a study of interpretation-related malpractice cases in four states. (Ollove, 10/12)
In other news about the quality of health care services —
The Dallas Morning News:
Are Medical Mistakes Really The Third Leading Cause Of Death In The U.S.?
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University said a quarter of a million Americans die each year because of medical errors. That put medical mistakes as the third leading cause of death in the U.S. second only to heart disease and cancer. The study generated some scary headlines. But before you put off that trip to the doctor, here are some problems with the study. (Yasmin, 10/11)
