Patients from all over the world choose the Cleveland Clinic because of its renown in every specialty area of adult and pediatric medicine. The International Center makes it a priority to help patients and their families, many of whom have traveled from far away, to feel more at ease while they are here. The International Center professionals arrange medical consultations. They provide individualized, personalized attention to each patient's needs. The International Center staff includes more than 60 fully trained, bilingual and multi-lingual professionals who accommodate the language and cultural transition needs of international patients.
Interpreters translate pertinent medical information for patients and health care staff.
The interpreters accompany patients to each appointment so there is no confusion, communicating on behalf of patients and making sure that physician instructions are completely understood. International Center employees schedule appointments for patients according to their individual medical needs, assist with the registration process, and personally guide patients through the Clinic system. They also assist patients with filling prescriptions, and in finding equivalent medications for when they return home. The International Center staff secures hotels or other accommodations for patients' families, assisting with travel arrangements and greeting patients upon their arrival in the United States. In addition, more than 300 requests for medical consults are received each year by the International Center.