My wife had been seen by the ophthalmologist at this office for an emergency and was happy with the care. She then scheduled an appointment to have an eye exam to be evaluated for possibly needing her vision corrected, her appointment is for March. My wife speaks English but her native language is Spanish and feels more comfortable speaking and understanding that language. She received a call from the office yesterday and was advised that when she comes to her next appointment, she needs to bring someone with her that can help her speak English, if she can’t, she will have to cancel appointment. I myself was shocked upon hearing this from my wife. I work in a hospital and I know firsthand that we are required by law to provide an interpreter service to provide care to a patient with out any cost to the patient. This office excepts Medicare. Here is what Federal law states: 2. ACA Section 1557 (Affordable Care Act) Under Section 1557: • Healthcare providers receiving federal funds must provide: • Qualified interpreters • Translation services • At no cost to the patient • They cannot rely on: • Minor children • Untrained family members • Or force you to supply your own Furthermore: Where to file a complaint (if needed) U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office for Civil Rights (OCR) They handle language discrimination complaints. Besides calling the office and writing this Google review, I will be notifying HHS. What is very ironic, she received this call from a receptionist who spoke fluent Spanish. I cancelled my wife’s appointment and will be looking for another provider. Thank you.
