Hanover Hospital Offers New Inpatient Relations Service

Hanover Hospital announced that  Rhonda S. Ramos, B.A., is the hospital’s first In-Patient Relations Coordinator.  In her new position, Ramos assists patients on all medical units:  M-2, M-4, CCA, Maternity, Pediatrics, and CARM (Center for Acute Rehabilitative Medicine).  

Ramos’ role as inpatient advocate is similar to that of the new Emergency Department Patient Relations Coordinators Luisa Wolfe and Phil Sherfey, though she serves as a liaison between inpatients and their families, physicians and nursing staff.  She also assists patients in interpreting hospital functions, procedures, services and identifying solutions to problems and resolving concerns.  She visits each patient, letting them know she is available if they have any questions or concerns, and follows through to make sure issues are resolved, and that every patient has a maximum quality experience during their hospital stay. Fluent in Spanish, she is available to provide interpretation assistance between patients and caregivers.

As a World Missions major at Valley Forge Christian College, Ramos traveled to many Spanish-speaking countries, where she spent time living among and working with the people.  She said she has always enjoyed working with the Hispanic population, and her knowledge of their culture is very helpful in her new position.                          

“I serve as the ‘voice’ of the patient -- I’m here for them,” Rhonda explained, adding that some patients just appreciate a friendly chat with her.  “Some of the elderly patients have no family, no one to talk to.  Sometimes I’m there just to listen.”

Ramos is pleased to be in her new position, and to be able to serve  patients in such a positive way.  “I enjoy helping people, and hopefully making their day a little nicer.”