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BWH Support Services staff are getting the answers they need about heart health. Three BWH physicians are volunteering their time to conduct seminars for female Support Services staff in English, Spanish and Haitian-Creole.
“This is a way for those who don’t speak English well to get basic health information in their own language,” said Gabrielle Bercy-Roberson, MD, MPH, who led the Haitian-Creole session for the second year in a row. “We make sure that they understand the message.”
Bercy-Roberson said that last year’s Haitian-Creole session was well attended and that participants were comfortable enough to openly ask questions about health problems.
“This is an opportunity for women to speak freely to a doctor about taking care of themselves,” said Maisha Douyon Cover, women’s health program coordinator for the Office for Women, Family and Community Programs. “Women often care for many other people, and their own health becomes secondary.”
The first two sessions were held this week in Spanish and Haitian-Creole. A third session in English will be held April 30, 9:45 – 11 a.m., in Carrie Hall. During the sessions, participants ask questions about cardiovascular topics, have their blood pressure checked, win prizes and enjoy refreshments.
“In general, people feel most comfortable asking questions about their health to a doctor who speaks their language,” said Jennifer Nadelson, administrative director of Support Services. “That’s why we wanted to offer this series in three languages.”
Those interested in attending Monday’s session should speak to their supervisors about signing up. Participants receive paid release time during their shifts.
The series is co-sponsored by the HMS Center of Excellence in Women’s Health, BWH Support Services and the Connors Center for Women’s Health.