Interpreter, Accessibility & Support Services

Services for the Physically Challenged

Sign language interpreters, telephone amplifiers, TTY phones and closed-captioned televisions are available to hearing-impaired patients free of charge. Please contact Patient Relations at 202-865-6823 or request these services through your nurse.

Our hospital continually strives to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and District of Columbia Disabilities Act regarding the rights of all disabled individuals. If you or a visitor encounter any physical or communication barriers during your time at our hospital, or believe you have been denied access to the hospital’s full array of services because of your disability, we encourage you to contact a patient representative at 202-865-6823. Someone will respond to your concerns as soon as possible.

American Sign Language (ASL) Services

Sign language interpreters, telephone amplifiers, TTY phones and closed-captioned televisions are available to hearing-impaired patients free of charge. Please contact  Department of Multicultural Affairs at 202-865-5284 or request these services through your nurse.

Our hospital continually strives to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and District of Columbia Disabilities Act regarding the rights of all disabled individuals. If you or a visitor encounter any communication barriers during your time at our hospital, or believe you have been denied access to the hospital’s full array of services because of your disability, we encourage you to contact the Multicultural Affairs Department at 202-865-5284. Someone will respond to your concerns as soon as possible.

Language Interpreter Services

Assistance is available for patients and families who do not speak English. Every effort will be made to identify a staff member who is proficient in your language and can assist you and your family. For information, contact your nurse or call 202-865-5284.

Multicultural Affairs

Recognizing that cultural and language barriers can impede access to health, Howard University’s Department of Multicultural Affairs addresses the unique needs of the Hispanic and non-English speaking communities. The office has medical interpreters and bilingual staff (Spanish, English, Amharic, French, Cantonese, Mandarin) with experience in health care and social services. The office is open Monday–Friday from 6:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. and can be reached by calling 202-865-5284.

Volunteer Services

There may be occasions when a task is needed or an errand run within the hospital. The Office of Volunteer Services is available (Monday –Friday from 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.) to respond to your needs. The office provides reading materials: i.e., magazines and hard and paperback novels. For your convenience, please call 202-865-1470 or 202-865-1375.