Employees going through a difficult time are encouraged to reach out to the Yale New Haven Hospital Peer Support Team. Team members are volunteers from various clinical and non-clinical departments who are prepared to respond to those affected by an emotionally challenging event. Team members can provide support to colleagues or direct them to additional resources, if necessary. While not professionally trained mental health experts, Peer Support Team members are equipped to facilitate small groups and comfort individuals. In all cases, sessions are free and completely confidential. To speak to a Peer Support Team member, call 203-688-4242 or email [email protected].
YNHHS recently implemented a new, standard greeting with a language menu for people who call the main phone numbers at each delivery network. The menu gives callers the option to choose Spanish, Arabic or Portuguese. An interpreter for the chosen language comes on the line before the switchboard operator and will interpret for the phone call. The interpreter will remain on the line even if the caller has to be transferred to a department. Previously, callers with limited English proficiency did not have language options and went directly to the switchboard operators, which caused delays and frustration. The new greeting and language menus are designed to improve accessibility and callers’ experiences.