Interpretation and Translation

Oral interpretation and written translation services are provided to non-English speaking and hearing — impaired patients and their families. When a patient is hospitalized, the primary illness may be compounded by anxiety, reactions to separation from family and familiar surroundings, and fear of the unknown. In addition, cultural and ethnic beliefs may affect a patient’s attitude toward illness. A patient who cannot communicate suffers additional

Jay Cayner Director (319) 356-2635 caynerj@healthcare.uiowa.edu

Ozzie F. Díaz-Duque, Ph.D. Coordinator (319) 356-7116 odduque@healthcare.uiowa.edu

Language interpretation and translation services are available to assist non-English-speaking or hearing-impaired patients and families during clinic visits, hospital stays, or other communication with hospital staff.

The primary interpreting service requested at The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics are for Spanish followed by American Sign Language. One full-time staff interpreter provides Spanish/English interpreter services. One half-time staff interpreter provides Spanish/English interpreting as well as translation services for hospital documents.

A Language Bank of over 135 free lance persons as well as volunteers provide interpreter services, as needed, in over 40 languages. Please contact our interpreting program if you are bilingual and willing to participate in our Language Bank. To request services or information please call 319-356-1967.

Who to contact:

	Mary H. Solís Hospital Interpreter (Spanish/English) (319) 356-1967 mary-solis@uiowa.edu
	Todd Kuennen, M.A. Hospital Interpreter and Translator (Spanish/English) (319) 356-7117 kuennn@healthcare.uiowa.edu

• Language Interpretation Resources
• Limited English Proficiency Resources
• Other Resources for UI Hospitals and Clinics Staff and Language Bank