Tuesday, August 17, 2004

MUSLIM MODESTY

In response to Muslim women who were skipping doctor's appointments because of those peekaboo hospital gowns, Maine Medical Center designed a modest one:
When officials at Maine Medical Center discovered many Muslim women were so ashamed they were canceling doctor visits, the hospital took action, redesigning the standard gown to provide extra coverage for patients who want it. The new hospital gowns have been available for several weeks.

"I have witnessed their misery and how bad they feel about it. They don't like it. They feel ashamed. It's very embarrassing," said Asha Abdulleh, a native of Kenya and a medical interpreter.

"This is a great example of a challenge raised by a specific community that can ultimately benefit all patients," said Dana Farris Gaya, the hospital's manager of interpreter and cross-cultural services.

I think it's great, but it raises the question: Why did it take Muslim modesty to get this done?

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