BUFFALO, N.Y. — A new state law aims to make hospital care more accessible for millions of New Yorkers who don’t speak English as their first language.
Local supporters say language access can mean the difference between confusion and care. Under this new legislation, hospitals across New York have to make sure patients are understood and understand their health care.
The law requires hospitals to designate a language assistance coordinator, provide trained interpreters, document language preferences in medical records, and ensure staff are trained to communicate clearly with patients…