Citizens with hearing disabilities in New Jersey can now request an ASL interpreter be present at their vaccination site.
In a partnership with the state Office of Emergency Management and the Department of Health, the Department of Human Services’ Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is providing American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at each megasite. Interpreters are available in-person or remotely to individuals who ask for an ASL interpreter.
“We want to make sure all New Jerseyans feel as comfortable as possible with the vaccination process,” Human Services Acting Commissioner Sarah Adelman said. “Our Division of Deaf and Hard of Hearing is committed to helping individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing have adequate communication access when getting a vaccine at the state-run megasites. I encourage anyone who needs this assistance to ask for it. It’s there to help and make this process as easy as can be for all New Jerseyans.”
“During any emergency, it is important that people know what is happening, when it will happen, and what steps they are expected to take,” Colonel Patrick Callahan of the New Jersey State Police said. “Giving deaf and hard of hearing individuals accurate and critical information during the vaccination process enables us to build a high level of trust and satisfaction within the communities these megasites serve.”
“All of our megasites are ADA accessible and have special accommodations available to help enhance the comfort of individuals during their visit,” New Jersey Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli said. “Communicating health information clearly and accurately is critical in understanding the vaccination process.”
Individuals needing ASL interpretation can ask for it at the registration desk inside each megasite. Megasite staff will either connect individuals with an in-person interpreter or an interpreter available remotely using a computer tablet to connect with an interpreter.
To make an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine, visit covid19.nj.gov/vaccine or call 855-568-0545.
