Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust (NUH) has rolled out a translation app to improve communication and boost safety for maternity service users in Nottingham.
The CardMedic app is designed to help deliver accessible care to non-English speaking women and birthing people by providing healthcare translation and interpreting support.
It features ready-made clinical interactions in more than 50 languages, and is being launched in the maternity department and neonatal unit at NUH to support shared-decision making for expectant parents.
Head of midwifery operations at NUH, Elaine Broughton, said: “By using CardMedic, we can be reassured that we are communicating with patients effectively and sensitively.
“At NUH we’re continually looking to improve patient safety and reduce health inequalities. This app will give people the opportunity and confidence to ask questions, and give clinicians the ability to respond quickly. We know CardMedic will make a positive difference for families in Nottingham.”
CardMedic launched at NUH thanks to funding from the Nottinghamshire Local Maternity and Neonatal System (LMNS), to address healthcare inequalities and support improvements in our maternity services.
The app is used to enhance the Trust’s existing interpretation offering which includes a face-to-face and telephone service.
It is available 24/7 and helps ensure that communication barriers do not get in the way of patient care.
As well as providing instant translation support, CardMedic can also provide information in British Sign Language, ReadAloud and EasyRead formats to support patients and their families.
Dr Rachael Grimaldi, co-Founder and chief executive of CardMedic, said: “Improving maternity and neonatal care is a national priority, and we couldn’t be happier that CardMedic is being used to help maternity staff bridge gaps in service provision.
“Everyone deserves to access equitable care, irrespective of their language, cognition, or background, and we’re excited to see how CardMedic helps to make a difference for families in Nottingham.”