A new program helps improve access to health care for the Indian community.
Ravinder Soni, 75, of Monroe was strugling with foot pain, gastrointestinal problems and arthritis in her knees, back and shoulders. She also had cataracts and needed to see an ophthalmologist. Finding medical care wasn’t easy, though. Ravinder, who is originally from India, speaks Punjabi and Hindi, and her English is limited. So when she discovered that Monmouth Medical Center (MMC) offers a program designed to assist Indian patients with access to medical care, it was welcome news.The Indian Medical Program was launched by MMC and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus in Lakewood in February. “We understand that specific ethnic and racial groups are more prone to certain illnesses and diseases and that many encounter language, cultural and socioeconomic barriers that may make it more challenging to access appropriate health care,” says Eric Carney, President and Chief Executive Officer of MMC. “To address this, Monmouth Medical Center has developed unique programs, like the Indian Medical Program, that enable us to provide culturally competent care to improve the health and wellness of our community and reduce health disparities.”
The Indian Medical Program is modeled on two other RWJBarnabas Health programs that help patients overcome barriers to health care. “We started the Chinese Medical Program 10 years ago to help the Chinese community find medical care, and it was very successful,” says Punam Jain, a patient navigator and coordinator of the Indian Medical Program. “After that, we launched the Russian Medical Program. This year, we decided to expand the program to the Indian community.”
Census figures show that about 16,000 Indian people live in Monmouth and Ocean counties. “The Indian community is very large in New Jersey, and I’ve seen firsthand the barriers people face when seeking health care in our region,” says Jain. “In addition, as Asian Indians, we’re at increased risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, which require attention and care.”
A support system
Jain helps Ravinder find physicians and accompanies her to appointments to translate and facilitate communication. Ravinder doesn’t drive, so Jain arranges transportation to appointments. She also schedules follow-up visits and assists with insurance issues and paperwork. “Every aspect of my health care is being taken care of,” says Ravinder via translation. “I’m so thankful for Punam. This program is really a support system for me.”
So far, Jain has helped about 20 Indian patients obtain much-needed medical care. She says the new program is already having a significant impact. “When I accompany patients to appointments, they feel so much more comfortable,” she says. “I’m proud of our efforts to help the community.”
Now that Ravinder doesn’t face language barriers to health care, she’s receiving the medical attention she needs, and her health is improving. “I’m feeling much better,” she says. “I’ve been going to physical therapy, which has helped my back pain and shoulder pain tremendously. And I’m planning to have cataract surgery soon.”
To learn more, call the Indian Medical Program hotline at 732.923.6361.