Patient Navigator at Kentucky CancerLink helps bridge language barriers for care

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) -At Kentucky CancerLink the mission is to remove any and all barriers to getting lifesaving cancer screenings.

For some, a crucial obstacle can be a language barrier.

In this Link to Hope, how one navigator works to direct people to the medical care they need.

Imagine knowing you need a health screening but worried you do not know where to go because you do not speak the language.

As a bilingual navigator at Kentucky CancerLink, Maria Jury helps bridge that gap.

“We receive calls from any languages, but we have a lot of the population who are Hispanics, and they don’t speak English,” said Maria Jury.

In her office a bible verse about God’s help, reminds Jury of why her job is so important, helping people navigate a healthcare system where a language barrier could easily keep them from getting a lifesaving screening like a mammogram.

“I try to explain the importance of this kind of procedure. A lot of people are afraid to do it just because the first thing they ask is how much,” said Jury.

At Kentucky CancerLink Jury often utilizes the Yes Mamm program within communities where English is not the first language. The program provides free breast screenings for people uninsured or underinsured.

“That’s really important for us because first its free and second we have the ability to talk in English or Spanish. Also, clinics and hospitals we request translators,” said Jury.

When it comes to a cancer diagnosis, time is of the essence and Jury does not want anyone to go any longer than they have to to get screened just because they do not understand the process.

Her work as a bilingual navigator is a link to hope of breaking down barriers and potentially saving lives.

“For me I feel like I’m doing something for my community, not just with the Hispanic community but in general with our community,” said Jury.

For more on the services offered at Kentucky CancerLink click here.