By Ms. Simone Augustus, Communications Specialist, Office of the President
In an inspiring blend of empathy and skill, Dr. Felicia Matthews, an emergency medicine specialist at Trinidad and Tobago’s Sangre Grande Hospital, took a bold step forward by learning Spanish. Her motivation? To bridge the communication divide that exists for the growing number of Spanish-speaking refugees and migrants who seek emergency care but face language barriers in the process.
Pictured: Dr. Felicia Matthews
In 2023, a challenging encounter with a young Venezuelan patient and her family highlighted for Dr. Matthews the deep need for clear communication in urgent medical situations. Driven by this experience, she enrolled in “Spanish for Frontline Healthcare Workers” an 8-week microcredential offered by the University of the Southern Caribbean’s International Center for Corporate Training and Languages (ICCTL). Her new language skills now allow her to connect with patients on a more personal level, providing not only medical care but a reassuring presence.
The United Nations (UN) has recognized Dr. Matthews’ commitment by sharing her story as a shining example of how healthcare professionals can help bring comfort and hope to displaced individuals. Dr. Matthews’ journey is a reminder that sometimes the smallest gestures, like speaking a few words in someone’s native language, can make the biggest impact.
This commitment is now highlighted in an article by the UN, showcasing Dr. Matthews’ impact as she bridges linguistic and cultural divides to bring reassurance and understanding to those in vulnerable situations. Her story underscores the transformative power of language in healthcare, not only improving communication but also fostering trust and a sense of belonging for refugees navigating a foreign healthcare system.
Read Dr. Matthews’ story here: A doctor in Trinidad and Tobago has learned Spanish to help refugees feel welcome
