The DO

What two months on a hospital recliner taught me

By The DO Staff

04.08.23

Like most students, I hoped to spend the summer before starting medical school enjoying time with friends and family. I was able to do this, but in an unexpected way. For about two months, I slept on a hospital recliner by my grandfather’s side. While we bonded, I witnessed how common it is for patients with limited English proficiency to fall through the cracks in the areas of cultural competency, nutrition and emotional wellness.