Spanish speaking cancer patients at Our Lady of Mercy Medical Center now have advocates who speak their language in their corner.

The Bronx hospital started the borough?s first Patient Navigator Program to help its Comprehensive Cancer Center patients. Trained staff members are paired with patients to translate solutions to problems, such as finding financial resources and cutting through bureaucracy in insurance. Officials say the program?s goal is to break down cultural barriers to ensure the best possible treatment.

Maribel Echabirria, who remembers being unable to communicate her concerns in a hospital, welcomes the program. Officials say while some people will likely continue to slip through the cracks, the program will go a long way to inform many more.

Related InformationComprehensive Cancer Center 718-920-9731