Remember the deaf pet groomer who claimed clients were being stolen from her? Now she has gotten a settlement from the pet store chain, PetCo. PetCo is paying $145,000 but still denies any illegal or discriminatory behavior. The settlement is actually with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Next, in a case that has just started, a Northern Virginia deaf couple is suing Inova Health System because Inova Fairfax Hospital allegedly failed to provide adequate interpreting services when their child was born. The baby had serious medical issues. They claim that the doctors tried to communicate with them without interpreters.
The Inova Fairfax case hits home for us, because way back in 2003, that is where my boyfriend had emergency treatment.
That VA couple is in excellent hands. That law firm handled my landmark case, working with another law firm along with Dept of JusticeI heartily recommend this firm.
The deaf community constantly has problems when no Interpreter is present especially in an emergency or hospital setting. Hospital personnel feel that they can communicate with the Deaf/HI without one. They should keep a list on file of interpreters so that the list can be available and utilized when needed. The American Disibilities Act says that they have a right to an interpreter. {KGP} Roselle, NJ