BATTLE CREEK, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A woman was reportedly sent home after encountering a language barrier at Bronson Hospital in Battle Creek.
According to the Battle Creek Enquirer, Lal Puii, a native of Burma, went for an MRI appointment on Tuesday but was turned away because there wasn’t an interpreter available.
While her husband offered to interpret for her, staff reportedly said that wouldn’t be allowed. Instead, she was handed a note that read, “Reschedule MRI. Tell them you need an interpreter” with a phone number. Her appointment had been scheduled since late November.
Under federal law, hospitals are required to provide translators for those speaking limited English.
Puii’s sister-in-law has filed complaints with Bronson Hospital, the U.S. Department of Justice, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to look into the incident and take action so it does not happen to any other patients.
Bronson Healthcare officials have apologized for the situation and say they have corrections to make.
