Rainbow Pediatrics Offers Spanish Speaking Medical Interpreter

RIO GRANDE – To accommodate the large population of Spanish speaking families in the region, Rainbow Pediatrics features a medical Spanish interpreter.
Anita LaPlaca has facilitated accurate communications between Spanish-speaking patients and the nurse, receptionist and pediatrician caring for them at the Rio Grande location since 2012.
“Medical interpretation is far more specialized and involved than some might think,” noted LaPlaca. “I have to be able to explain medical procedures and why they are needed, prescription medications and why they are being prescribed, why X-rays are being requested and where – sometimes how – those X-rays can be accomplished; all with words that are clear and understood by each individual, based on their dialect. This all comes by way of extensive training,” which she obtained she noted during nine years of employment at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, NC.
LaPlaca’s job responsibilities include participation in pediatric exams and visits so that the patient and parents fully understand their pediatrician’s comments, recommendations and instructions; returning inquiries and calls from Spanish-speaking families; and assisting reception with walk-in inquiries and paperwork requests.
“Spanish-speaking families seek out our pediatric care for their children. Without Anita’s presence, many of these families might not even attempt to receive pediatric care, simply because they could not communicate their needs,” said Rainbow Pediatrician Dr. Thomas Dierkes.
LaPlaca’s experience includes an extensive background as a registered nurse and 23 years of working with Hispanic immigrants.With 14 years of experience as a medical interpreter, LaPlaca has the insight and understanding of the medical field needed to do her job at Rainbow. Her primary roles are to facilitate accurate communication; ensure safe care; clarify medical terms and procedures for the patient; gain an understanding of each family’s cultural values and beliefs and honor them through the care they receive; and advocate for the betterment of each family beyond the confines of the Rainbow offices.
For any Spanish-speaking family seeking pediatric care for their children, Rainbow Pediatrics has the expertise to address their needs and keep them growing healthy and happy. Office hours at Rainbow Pediatrics in Rio Grande are Monday – Saturday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
For more information about Rainbow Pediatrics – including their other office locations in Egg Harbor Township and Clermont, please visit http://njrainbowpediatrics.com/ or call 609-624-9003. You can also Like them on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/RainbowPediatrics and follow them on Twitter at www.Twitter/com/RainbowDocs.