Author: EthnoMed

In early 2026, the Oromo community of Seattle lost a charismatic community leader with the passing of Obbo Mama Argo.

Mama Argo was one of EthnoMed’s generous and impactful early collaborators and served as Community Advisor helping get the HMC Community House Calls program off the ground. He contributed to many published educational resources, including the Oromo Cultural Profile and Oromo Immigrants and Breast Feeding Information. As a former nurse leader in Ethiopia and a leader in the local Oromo community Mama Argo held outstanding knowledge of the community’s history and culture and the community’s practices and healthcare believe and experiences. The lessons learned by those who were lucky to hear from Mama Argo were countless, interesting, and beneficial to all on both personal and professional levels. Clinicians recall learning pertinent cultural information on topics including governing systems in the Oromo culture, about smallpox inoculation in Africa long before the vaccine was developed, about Oromo healers’ ability to treat fractures in ways that resulted in more rapid healing, and more. Mama Argo provided our teams with invaluable input and advice around how to talk about different health conditions within the Ethiopian communities served by our healthcare providers. He truly was a pillar within the Oromo community and a staunch advocate for the greater African diaspora in Seattle as well. 

 

Related articles:
• The Legacy of Obbo Mama Argo: A Community’s Guiding Star | Advocacy for Oromia 
• Honoring Ob Mama Argoo: A Pillar of Oromo Community in Seattle | Oromedia 
• Mammaa Argoo (1946-2026): A Legacy of Service in the Oromo Struggle | Advocacy for Oromia 

The Human Touch in Healthcare: Why In-Person Interpreters Still Matter.

In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, AI and machine learning tools are transforming the way care is delivered. While these technologies bring exciting opportunities, they can never replace the empathy, cultural insight, and precision that professional interpreters bring to every encounter.

At the bedside, interpreters do far more than convey words. They navigate nuance, tone, and cultural context — the subtle elements that can make the difference between understanding and misunderstanding. This level of accuracy isn’t just about communication; it’s about quality and safety. Clear, culturally competent communication reduces errors, improves adherence to care plans, and helps prevent avoidable readmissions.

As we embrace innovation, let’s continue to prioritize professional interpreters – and partner with our amazing team of in-person staff interpreters, whose skill and presence ensure that every patient’s voice is heard — and that every message of care is understood as intended. Technology can assist, but it’s people who safeguard quality and build trust.

National Hispanic Heritage month is a celebration of the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. Americans observe this recognition September 15 to October 15.

September 15 is significant because it is Independence Day for the Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, while Mexico celebrates independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18. Indigenous People’s Day and Día de la Raza are celebrated by many Spanish-speaking countries during this time as well.

We are thrilled that one of our Spanish Interpreters was recognized in the University of Washington Vitals intranet. Rosa Guerreo was highlighted for the important work she does to serve our communities.

We are grateful for the important work and vital that all of our interpreters and Caseworker Cultural Mediators do at Harborview Medical Center. We are committed to providing health equity for everyone.

We were thrilled to attend the Somali Health Board 13th Annual Health Fair and the ribbon-cutting event for the new Somali Community Cultural Innovation Hub. It was a joyful gathering – celebrating community, encouraging the next generation to dream big, honoring elders, and recognizing all those who worked so hard to make this center a reality.

Community partners provided free health information and screenings, the food was delicious, and children squealed with delight. We look forward to continued connections and collaborations!

Many thanks to Dr. Ahmed Ali from Othello Station Pharmacies, Congressman Adam Smith, Port Commissioner Hamdi Mohamed, UWMedicineHealth, King County Public Health, Global Perinatal Services, Community Health Plan, Swedish Medical, our future leaders Muna Jaylaani, Malyun Jaylaani, Kouther Ahmed and everyone who attended

You can view our LinkedPost for more photos and our IG reel for a video clip.

Dr. Duncan Reid is advocate for creating shadowing opportunities for medical students at the International Medicine Clinic. Dr. Reid is especially passionate about creating these opportunities for minority students and children of immigrants who may not have the typical “connections” to medical school. As a physician in the clinic, Dr. Reid regularly creates culturally rich and informative experiences for the students that he mentors.

Two of his mentees have been accepted to medical school- Congratulations!

We’d like to highlight these two students, Angshita Dutta and Chelsea Ng. Both former UW students spent significant time shadowing in the International Medicine Clinic and feel that the experience really helped them in essays and interviews for medical school.

Angshita Dutta- Raising Cultural Awareness

“Exposure to the nuances and specific clinical care for immigrant and refugee patients was a unique shadowing experience. I was moved to find IMC physicians often take time out of their day to better understand the various cultures of their patient population – from memorizing greetings in other languages, researching specific cultural expectations, learning about religious practices or even looking up culturally-appropriate recipes that might aid in clinical management of chronic illnesses like diabetes.

Shadowing in the IMC also opened the door to participating in health fairs and projects through EthnoMed. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity; I highly recommend this mentorship experience to any premedical student with an interest in working with underserved patient populations.”

Chelsea Ng – Shadowing Leads to Deeper Understanding

“Shadowing at an International Medicine Clinic was one of the most formative experiences of my pre-med journey as it inspired me to see how I could serve immigrant populations in the future. I observed firsthand how providers navigated complex cultural dynamics, language barriers, and competing life circumstances while delivering compassionate, patient-centered care to immigrant and refugee populations.

While shadowing I observed many moments that taught me that medicine was not just about diagnosing and treating, but about listening and meeting patients where they are. As a pre-med, shadowing here gave me a firsthand look into the unique features of treating and serving a different population, as well as a deeper understanding of healthcare inequities.”

May is Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (ANHPI) Heritage Month, and throughout the month, we will be celebrating the contributions and diverse cultures of our Asian, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander colleagues and what their heritage means to them in a multi-part series. Vitals, UW Medicine Intranet asked participants why they chose a career in healthcare and about their favorite traditions.

Jeniffer Huong, Cultural Mediator, Community House Calls Program Harborview Medical Center

“I chose to pursue a career in healthcare because I have always been passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on people’s lives. The ability to provide care, support and improve the health and well-being of individuals is incredibly fulfilling to me. Additionally, the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of healthcare keeps me engaged and motivated to continuously learn and grow in my profession.

My heritage played a significant role in influencing my decision to enter the healthcare field. Growing up in a family where compassion and community service were highly valued, I was inspired by the stories of my ancestors who dedicated their lives to helping others. My cultural background instilled in me a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to the welfare of my community. This deep-rooted value of caring for others guided me toward a career where I could make a meaningful difference.

As someone with Cambodian heritage, I wish people knew more about the rich history, traditions and resilience of my culture. Cambodia has a profound and ancient history, marked by the grandeur of the Khmer Empire and the architectural marvels of Angkor Wat. Our traditions, such as the graceful Apsara dance and the vibrant celebrations of Khmer New Year, reflect the beauty and depth of our cultural heritage. 

Moreover, the resilience and strength of the Cambodian people are truly inspiring. Despite facing significant challenges, including the tragic period of the Khmer Rouge, our community has shown remarkable perseverance and a commitment to rebuilding and preserving our cultural identity. I believe that understanding these aspects of Cambodian heritage can foster greater appreciation and respect for our culture.

My favorite cultural traditions are Khmer foods and Khmer New Year. I love Khmer New Year because we had three days off back home to celebrate the New Year. I got to wear new clothes and went to visit friends and families all over the town and provinces. I got to eat a lot of different kinds of foods and play the Khmer New Year traditional games, such as Teagn Prot (tug of war), Chol Chhoung, Bos Angkunh and Leak Kanseng.”

©UW Medicine Vitals, 2025

As we approach 2025, we are also approaching a new government administration. As an institution committed to serving refugee, immigrant, and migrant communities, at Harborview Medical Center we are acutely aware that these upcoming changes may have a direct impact on a great proportion of our diverse patient community. 

To our healthcare providers: we anticipate that your patients may have questions and concerns, and that you may have questions and concerns about how to best serve your patients. We encourage and welcome your anonymous questions, requests, and ideas here.

You may be wondering:

• Is my patient’s information  (e.g. country of birth, immigration status) confidential?
• Is ICE allowed in the hospital?
• What policy changes will impact my patients’ access to care?
• What resources can I give to my patients and their families?

While there are many unknowns about what will happen in the coming weeks and months, we are committed to keeping you in the loop and to answer as many questions as we can as the situation evolves.

• We encourage you to keep an eye on the EthnoMed Immigration page and subsequent Immigration Quarterly Updates, where we report an overview of National/Policy, Washington State, and other topics of interest related to current immigration statistics and policies
• Join Harborview’s Refugee and Immigrant Advisory Council by emailing Bayle Conrad . This group convenes bi-monthly to discuss issues pertaining to refugee and immigrant patients at Harborview. The next scheduled meeting is on January 14th at noon.

You may find these other local resources helpful as well:

• Election Stress and Discriminatory Rhetoric-CARRE: While the election has passed, many parts of this resource from CARRE remain relevant. This document provides tips in psychological first aid to respond to those experiencing stress/fear around immigration policy changes.
• Mental Health Resources for Undocumented People: Created by Immigrants Rising, this website compiles mental health resources available for undocumented communities nationwide.

As always, if you have a community resource to suggest for EthnoMed, please do not hesitate to contact us . We thank you for the care and service you provide to our refugee, immigrant, and migrant communities.

On October 10, 2024, the Interpreter Services Department captivated an audience of Global Health students and residents with a dynamic academic half-day session at Harborview Medical Center. Dr. Duncan Reid set the tone with an engaging presentation emphasizing the critical role of cultural understanding in patient care. His signature style—featuring real-time polls and audience interaction—brought life to historical examples from the Marshall Islands and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, illustrating how cultural context can influence health outcomes.

Next, Anab Abdullahi, Caseworker and Cultural Mediator for Somali-speaking patients, shared a compelling case study that illustrated her vital role in helping a young patient and caregiver navigate the health system. With a mix of compassion and humor, Anab underscored the importance of trust and relationship-building, noting how these elements can prevent major issues and ensure successful patient care.

Yvonne Simpson, Senior Director of Language Access and Cultural Advocacy, emphasized that language access is a fundamental social determinant of health. She offered practical advice for working with interpreters, including the importance of pre-session briefings, providing interpreters with relevant context, and always addressing the patient directly.

As we celebrate Interpreter Services Week, it’s impossible not to be struck by the profound impact interpreters have on every patient encounter. They do far more than translate words—they carry stories, cultures, and emotions, creating bridges between worlds. The comfort they provide to patients, the trust they foster between healthcare teams, and the clarity they bring in even the most complex situations are invaluable.
In our preparations for this week, we have been overwhelmed and touched by the outpouring of appreciation shared by providers and staff across Harborview Medical Center (HMC). We wanted to highlight some of the beautiful testimonials we received, underscoring different facets of the invaluable work done by our staff interpreters and Caseworker Cultural Mediators.

*Please note that some comments below have been edited for clarity and to protect the privacy of the individuals involved.

Building Trust and Personal Connections

One of the most essential aspects of an interpreter’s work is building trust and helping create strong, personal connections between healthcare teams and patients. Interpreters play a key role in making patients feel understood, respected, and cared for—laying the foundation for a positive healthcare experience.

“Each day, as I prepare for an upcoming clinic session, I can always tell how productive the day will be based on whether I have an in-person staff interpreter or not. Having an in-person interpreter enhances the communication tremendously and in doing so, (1) reduces misunderstandings and errors, (2) helps the flow and efficiency, so that we can cover more ground including preventive measures, and (3) boosts patients’ satisfaction and trust in us.”
— Genji Terasaki, Clinic Director, International Medicine Clinic, Harborview Medical Center (HMC)

“I would not be able to do my job without the excellent interpretation staff we have access to. With the assistance of an interpreter I am able to communicate kindness and welcome in a heart language in a setting that can be very foreign and intimidating. Recently I saw a patient who had been in and out of the Emergency Department several times in the last weeks, resulting in understandable anxiety. With my interpreter we were able to truly listen to his concerning symptoms and he left with a smile thanking us for our care. I am not sure we solved any medical problems that day, but we were able to make a deep personal connection, which is often more powerful than medicine.”
— David Hough, MD, International Medicine Clinic, Harborview Medical Center (HMC)

“It is difficult to pick just one time because there are so many instances when this is the case. However, one instance that comes to mind is in regard to all of the in-person interpreters who helped work with a young patient who was discharging home. Family training had to primarily occur virtually which is quite challenging when a patient is functioning very differently than they were prior to their admission. I most definitely credit our in-person interpreters for making that training and ultimate discharge home successful.”
— Kristen, Occupational Therapist, Inpatient Rehab, Harborview Medical Center

“Working with the on-site Spanish interpreter at Pioneer Square Clinic has been invaluable for connecting with the most vulnerable patients in our community. When patients have experienced trauma, have underlying serious mental illness, or are just unfamiliar with the US healthcare system, it is so important to have a consistent, familiar, and friendly face to greet them during visits and help navigate through a clinic visit.”
— Jared Klein, MD, Medical Director, HMC Downtown Programs

“Every time I work with a patient and a Harborview interpreter, the atmosphere in the room has a calmness that is palpable. The Harborview interpreters go above and beyond to treat patients with dignity and kindness, while doing an excellent job interpreting. I wish there were more Harborview staff interpreters so more patients could benefit from their expertise and commitment to the Harborview mission and have a positive experience at our clinic and with health care institutions in general.“
— Deborah Meisel, Nurse, After Care Clinic, Harborview Medical Center

“…the interpreter also offered meaningful insights about Deaf culture that allowed us to better appreciate our patient as a person and their needs from healthcare teams. This was particularly important when we were providing serious medical updates, creating complex care plans, and discussing their personal and health goals. Our interpreter colleague facilitated a space for us to create a trusted relationship with our patient, without which they would have experienced greater suffering and a shorter life with less attention to their most important values.“
— Michael A. Light, Palliative Care Social Worker, Harborview Medical Center

“I can’t choose just one. … A Spanish Caseworker Cultural Mediators (CCM) has helped our team with countless patients but the one that most recently comes to mind is a family that had immense grief over the loss of their loved one. The CCM provided support, interpretation, and wonderful care of this family throughout their time at HMC. A Vietnamese Interpreter helped with complex family dynamics of a young woman who came to HMC. The interpreter provided a warm and compassionate presence to both the patient and her family (who were many states away) and helped facilitate conversations as we navigated their profound grief and decision-making“
— Kira S, Palliative Care, Harborview Medical Center

Navigating Emotionally Complex Situations

Interpreting goes far beyond language. When it comes to navigating emotionally difficult conversations, particularly those involving serious diagnoses or mental health concerns, our interpreters are there to ensure patients and providers feel supported. Their ability to convey nuance, match tone, and offer key cultural insights is what makes such a difference during these moments.

“…interpreters without a doubt make our care and connections with our patients and their families better, but I want to emphasize how having in-person interpreters feels critical for rapport building. Difficult and/or emotional conversations are so much more impactful with in-person interpreters. When appropriate, I intentionally use humor with my patients, and I cannot express enough how meaningful it is to have Harborview’s in-person staff interpreters try to match my intonation. It makes such a difference! Thank you all!“
— Kristen, Occupational Therapist, Inpatient Rehab, Harborview Medical Center

“I’ve worked with a ton of interpreters over the years and the interpreters at Harborview are simply the best. Every interpreter at Harborview I have worked with has been skilled, professional, kind, respectful and compassionate. It takes a huge amount of skill to interpret in behavioral health appointments when the conversations are emotionally difficult, subtle, and complex. I have so much respect for the interpreters here.“
— Mana B., Behavioral Health Integration Program, Harborview Medical Center

“It’s hard to overstate the impact our HMC interpreters have on patient care. I can recall so many family meetings on the palliative care service when having an interpreter present allowed us to truly understand and address the real concerns families were having in such a difficult time. I’ve been witness to many situations where they alone have been the reason that we’ve been able to find common ground and true collaboration with patients and families. In clinic, they are instrumental in helping us communicate with patients who have not only language barriers, but often cognitive and communication impairments and many challenges navigating the health care system in the outpatient setting. Our interpreters often get to know individual patients across multiple visits and can provide incredibly helpful and insightful contextual information as well. I’m grateful every day for our HMC interpreters – they are outstanding!“
— Margaret Isaac – Adult Medicine Clinic and Palliative Care Service, Harborview Medical Center

“A staff interpreter helped me with a visit with a challenging patient. It was my first visit with them as they were transitioning from inpatient care to outpatient care. The interpreter had worked with the patient when they were inpatient and was able to help them bridge this transition. In our session the interpreter was calm, pleasant and very thorough and I was able to make progress building rapport with this patient in a way that would not have been possible without the in-person staff interpreter. Even the patient recognized that the interpreter was especially helpful and thanked her as well. We are lucky to have such skilled interpreters in the Harborview system, they are an essential part of delivering high quality care to our target population.“
— Nissa Freed ARNP Harborview Mental Health and Addictions Services

Advocating for Patients

Our interpreters often go the extra mile to advocate for patients, address unspoken needs, and help solve complex issues. They don’t just translate—they make sure that no one is left behind and that every patient is treated with the dignity they deserve.

“EVERY TIME I have utilized in person interpreter services for patient care it has resulted in better care for the patient and their family. The connection you can make with having an in-person interpreter is much stronger than other types of interpreter platforms. THEY. ARE. THE. BEST.“
— Nissa Freed ARNP, Harborview Mental Health and Addictions Services

“One of our staff interpreters helped us reunite a family! An unidentified patient had been admitted to the hospital and wasn’t able to speak. Everyone was trying to figure out who the admitted patient could be. … The staff interpreter helped out in my clinic visit with a distressed patient who couldn’t find their family member. This was the unidentified patient! Our staff interpreter helped solve the mystery. It was a beautiful moment to witness the family reuniting. Our Harborview staff interpreters are the BEST!“
— Alexandra M., Physician, International Medicine Clinic, Harborview Medical Center

“I sincerely appreciate the presence of our HMC interpreters as they are able to help us gain a new perspective of the patients and help us provide better person-centered care. My job responsibilities include the first opportunity for patients to be outside in the community after a traumatic event, and having an interpreter present to work through the emotional/behavioral perspective is vital. One of the staff Spanish interpreters I worked with is an incredible advocate for Recreational Therapy, and their passion and dedication to the patients do not go unnoticed…Their presence on the outings provides comfort for the patient and family members, especially because they have established rapport from being present with other therapies. We are incredibly fortunate to have their support!“
— Sofie Rodriguez, Recreational Therapist, Inpatient Rehabilitation, Harborview Medical Center

“… They ensured the patients’ concerns/needs were being heard and I was able to communicate the nursing aspect of education/care that was being given. .. I appreciate the in person interpreters, it gives patients comfort in expressing concerns along with interpreters being able to pick up on cultural cues to assist staff in asking questions and respecting boundaries.“
— Sharon, MN, RN, BSN, AACN ( Adult Medicine Clinic)/ Hypertension Nurse Educator

“Oh gosh! There are so many examples I don’t know where to start. EVERY day I have the opportunity to work with the in-person interpreters at HMC. Whether in a meeting where they advocate for their panel of patients or in a visit where they can help to explain concepts in ways that are culturally (in addition to language) appropriate.“
— Karen Conger Dietitian Adult Medicine and Endocrinology clinics, Harborview Medical Center

To Our Stupendous Interpreter Services Department Team

These testimonials speak to the immense impact you have on patient care at the Harborview Medical Center. Your work is not easy—it requires patience, empathy, and resilience. And yet, you show up every day with unwavering dedication to our patients. Your compassion transforms daunting medical experiences into moments of connection, understanding, and healing. Thank you for your tireless dedication. Every conversation you facilitate, every moment you ease for a patient or their family, and every barrier you break down makes our healthcare system more compassionate and inclusive. You are not just interpreters; you are healers, advocates, and voices for those who need it most. Thank you.

At Harborview Medical Center, we believe that every patient deserves the highest quality of care, regardless of language or culture. Our Interpreter Services team plays an essential role in making this possible, with an incredible staff who collectively speak over seventeen languages and manage interpretation for a staggering 400+ patient encounters every single day. Their work ensures that every patient’s voice is heard and their needs understood, fostering clear communication and building trust between patients and providers. Beyond language services, such as interpreting and document translation, the Interpreter Services Department at Harborview is unique in providing other standout programs to Harborview Medical Center (HMC) in their holistic approach to care.

The Community House Calls program features Caseworker Cultural Mediators (CCMs) who offer interpretation and provide navigation, advocacy, education, and case management for our most complex patients. They serve as a vital link between the healthcare team and the patient, ensuring culturally sensitive care every step of the way.

EthnoMed leverages partnerships between HMC, University of Washington students, local governments, and community organizations to educate providers on culturally informed care while creating culturally and linguistically tailored patient resources. The program also conducts outreach throughout King County, ensuring that lessons learned at Harborview benefit our surrounding community.

Lastly, at the heart of the Interpreter Services Department is the amazing scheduling team, who work tirelessly to connect patients across our many complex systems to the care and services they need.

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A TEAM ROOTED IN COMPASSION AND DEDICATION:
Krisna Mandujano, Interpreter Services Coordinator reflects on the deep connection she feels with her team.

What is an experience you had in your job that left an impression on you?

There was a patient that passed away at the hospital after being admitted for a couple of months. Our American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter had interpreted for this patient for years, and it was evident the patient liked having her as an interpreter. When they passed away, our interpreter was invited to their funeral. This was a special moment for the interpreter and impactful for me. The importance of having in person interpreters for Deaf patients matters, especially when patients are at the most vulnerable stages of their life. We hope that patients feel safe and supported every time we send an in-person interpreter.

What keeps you at Harborview Medical Center?

The interpreter services community keeps me at Harborview. I feel appreciated by many of the interpreters and CCMs. Jeniffer Huong is one of the CCMs that drops off snacks for the scheduling team. She’s such a kind person and it makes me feel grateful to work alongside empathic and admirable immigrant women. Interpreters will stop by at the end of their shift to ask how I’m doing. It’s moments like these that keep me at Harborview.

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COLLABORATING ACROSS CULTURES:
Nityia Przewlocki, EthnoMed Web Information Specialist , Highlights the many unsung heroes within ISD.

What is an experience you had in your job that left an impression on you?

One of the most impactful experiences I’ve had was interviewing and filming 12 colleagues from the Community House Calls program. Hearing their heartfelt stories about helping patients navigate health crises gave me profound insight into the vital role they play, especially for our vulnerable populations at Harborview Medical Center. This experience deepened my appreciation for the often unseen, yet critical, work being done to provide equitable and compassionate care. It left me with a lasting respect for their dedication and reinforced my commitment to supporting the Interpreter Services Department the best I can.

What keeps you at Harborview Medical Center?

I’m proud to be part of the EthnoMed.org team within the Interpreter Services Department at Harborview. Our small, resourceful team thrives on a culture of collaboration, creativity, and mutual appreciation. We share a common vision of excellence in serving diverse communities, and this environment fuels my passion for our mission. The opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects and to grow alongside such inspiring colleagues is what keeps me motivated and engaged in my work at Harborview.

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A Personal Stake in Patients Well-being
Omar Abow, Somali Caseworker Cultural Mediator and Diabetes Navigator

What is an experience you had in your job that left an impression on you?

The interpreters’ presence in the exam room makes the difference. I accompanied a patient to her pharmacist visit one day. The patient brought with her all the meds that she takes and as the pharmacist was sorting out those meds and asking questions about how she takes them and when she takes them, there had been discrepancies. With my assistance, the pharmacist fixed the dosage regimen. The patient was quite happy and said, “no wonder that my health condition hasn’t improved.” The patient’s words left me with an impression of “indeed, what I’m doing is making sense.”

What keeps you at Harborview Medical Center?

Harborview Medical Center is where one can feel that their contributions at work are valued. You walk into the clinics (whether it is Family Medicine Clinic, Adult Clinic, or International Medicine Clinic) and while you are on your way to meeting the patient, you encounter the front desk folks, MAs, RNs and providers who are enthusiastically ready to assist and make you feel that your presence matters. It really creates a sense of community and keeps me coming back every morning regardless of how grey the sky in Seattle is.

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Skilled Interpretation Across a Spectrum of Care
For Araceli González Medel, a Spanish Medical Interpreter II, the variety of her work across different areas of medicine is incredibly fulfilling.

What is an experience you had in your job that left an impression on you?

I have had a long career as an interpreter, and I have had so many beautiful and memorable moments with patients. One particular moment that comes to mind as a cherished memory is that I had an elderly patient who I had been working with for many years. They became very sick, had to be hospitalized, and eventually died in the hospital. This patient had no family; they had never married or had kids. They were basically alone. In addition to interpreting for them on several occasions, I took it upon myself to visit them regularly for a few minutes, to brighten up their day. I was not only a familiar face who spoke the same language, I also learned that they were from the same area of Mexico that I am from. So we made a connection. I was someone that they could talk to, and trust.

What keeps you at Harborview?

I really like my job. Harborview provides a caring space to serve people. My position is fulfilling because I am really making a difference in people’s lives within the immigrant community. My job is interesting because I have learned so much about many areas of medicine. This has enabled me to become a better Interpreter. I look forward to going to work every day.

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Commitment to Equity in Care
Alberto Jimenez Sanchez, Spanish Medical Interpreter I, emphasizes the vital role of bridging the communication gap.

What is an experience you had in your job that left an impression on you?

Working at a Level-1 trauma hospital, I’ve been amazed by how resilient the human body can be. I’ve seen patients overcome severe injuries, serious illnesses, and even the loss of a limb. It’s inspiring to witness the expertise of the providers, the body’s ability to heal, and the inner-strength of patients in their commitment to recovering.

What keeps you at Harborview Medical Center?

Harborview’s mission and commitment to provide quality healthcare to everyone, no matter their race, background, or financial situation, etc. It’s inspiring to work alongside dedicated professionals — doctors, nurses, and caregivers — who are committed to excellence. Their passion motivates me to do my best to be a valuable part of this institution.

As the last days of summer give way to fall in the northern hemisphere, cultures worldwide look forward to religious and cultural observances that ask them to reflect on and celebrate community. These observances often carry profound emotional weight, particularly for individuals from refugee, immigrant, and migrant backgrounds. For many, these are joyous occasions; for others, they can stir up more complex emotions. 

As healthcare providers, it is not news to us that the holidays may often bring with them troubling increases in mental illness, especially for aging populations, youth, and those struggling with prolonged health problems. However, it is essential to note that “the holidays” do not necessarily occur at a single time of year for everyone. Upcoming celebrations are often the perfect excuse to connect, reach out, and check in on our friends, colleagues, and patients. When those people come from different backgrounds to our own, however, it is worth considering whether or not that outreach is coming too late. 

Understanding the intersection of cultural practice and effective care is one of EthnoMed’s driving missions. So, as we all try to enjoy the final days of summer, let’s connect with our patients and coworkers by looking at some celebrations happening soon in thousands of households across King County.

Mooncake Festival (September 17th)

Also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, it is celebrated in East Asian cultures with filled cakes in an array of sweet and savory flavors reflecting different regions and family traditions. Brightly colored lanterns and large family gatherings round out this festival, symbolizing the harvest and reunion with loved ones. It has significance for many, similar to Thanksgiving in the US, and for that reason, it can underscore feelings of isolation and homesickness for individuals living far from their countries of origin.

Pchum Ben (October 1st – 3rd)

The most significant and widely celebrated Cambodian Buddhist festival focuses on honoring ancestors. Culminating in a substantial final day, the celebration involves ceremonies at pagodas, food offerings, and prayers for the spirits of the deceased. For many, the holiday becomes a time to address unresolved grief and loss, which, for members of this community in particular, often means reckoning with unimaginable loss and trauma. 

For context, look for our upcoming EthnoMed feature on Caseworker Cultural Mediator Jeniffer Huong, read through the EthnoMed Cambodian Cultural profile, or check out the Inheriting podcast on NPR to learn how traumatic lived experiences can echo through generations.

Dashain (October 3rd – 12th)

Dashain, the most significant Hindu festival in Nepal and parts of India, spans several days and features elaborate rituals, family reunions, and feasting. Dashain represents the triumph of good over evil and is a time for children to receive blessings from their elders and for families to travel from all over to join in dancing, storytelling, making music, flying colorful kites, performing rituals, and giving gifts.   

Día de los Muertos (October 31st – November 2nd)

Día de los Muertos is a vibrant and meaningful celebration rooted in Mexican culture. Observed from October 31st to November 2nd, the unmistakable sea of vibrant orange marigolds smelling of spice and fruit honors deceased loved ones through colorful altars, offerings of food, and communal gatherings. It serves as a way for families to remember and celebrate the lives of those who have passed and a vital opportunity to connect with their family’s history and heritage.

Conclusion

According to the American Psychiatric Association, refugees have a prevalence of PTSD and depression between 15% and 30%, which is ten times more than that experienced by non-refugee populations¹. Aside from the acute traumatic experiences that may exist, being separated from family and one’s community during significant times can add to the linguistic and cultural isolation already felt². Additionally, the stigma around seeking care for mental health issues in many cultures can add a tremendous load to people already struggling through insecure immigration status and financial stressors³. 

As healthcare providers and colleagues, we all seek to provide cultural sensitivity and emotional support. Still, we often feel less comfortable taking that first step when it comes to people whose traditions we do not fully understand. So, we invite you to be curious and ask your colleagues what they look forward to this fall. Also, providers should be aware of the complex emotions and memories that arise during significant times of celebration or reflection and encourage patients to share what they have on their horizon. This simple practice can drive connection and provide invaluable insight into their care and follow-up. Some may need encouragement to seek out celebrations by local community centers or resettlement agencies, a reminder to reach out to loved ones, and, in some cases, seek out more targeted care. 

Incorporating cultural sensitivity into our practice and everyday lives enhances our care and fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment. As we honor and celebrate our own cultural traditions this fall, let us remain mindful of the incredible variety of experiences had by patients and staff at Harborview Medical Center this and every “holiday” season. Check out the EthnoMed Event Calendar for holidays and educational webinars

References

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2017). The Mental Health Needs of Refugees: What Psychiatrists Need to Know.
2. Kirmayer, L. J., Narasiah, L., Munoz, M., Rashid, M., Ryder, A. G., Guzder, J., … & Pottie, K. (2011). “Common mental health problems in immigrants and refugees: general approach in primary care.” Canadian Medical Association Journal, 183(12), E959-E967. doi:10.1503/cmaj.090292.
3. Miller, K. E., & Rasmussen, A. (2010). “War exposure, daily stressors, and mental health in conflict and post-conflict settings: Bridging the divide between trauma-focused and psychosocial frameworks.” Social Science & Medicine, 70(1), 7-16. doi:10.1016/j.socscimed.2009.09.029.

As part of the Housecalls 30th Anniversary celebration in May 2024, we have interviewed members of the Community Housecalls team.

Since 2004, JT has worked in the surgery department at Harborview Medical Center and he helps Spanish speaking patients navigate through the surgery process. JT helps patients understand the pre-surgery preparation process, day of surgery instructions, and offers clear discharge instructions to the patient and family members in the Spanish language. This ensures that patients understand everything and follow the care which helps prevent extended hospital stays or readmissions.