Healthcare interpreters play a crucial role in bridging the communication gap between healthcare providers and patients who have limited proficiency in English. These individuals, defined as those who speak English less than “very well,” greatly benefit from the services of interpreters. The presence of healthcare interpreters not only enhances patient safety but also improves overall health literacy and understanding of medical information. This support extends to various aspects of healthcare, including ongoing medical and nursing management, self-care efficacy, and access to essential health services.

Recognizing the importance of clear communication in healthcare settings, NHS England and NHS Scotland have issued guidelines that strongly recommend the use of professional interpreters. This approach is advised over relying on patients’ family members or friends for translation in health discussions. Employing professional interpreters ensures more accurate and effective communication, which is fundamental in delivering quality healthcare to patients with limited English proficiency.

“Employing” children as interpreters is inappropriate.

In situations concerning child safety or gender-based violence, ensuring the presence of a qualified interpreter is critical.

It’s crucial to understand that not all individuals can read or write in their preferred language, and some may not have the literacy skills necessary to understand health-related written information. This is evident from instances where patients were unable to read in either the source or target language. Therefore, it’s important to assess a person’s literacy level before offering translated materials. For those with low health literacy, visual aids such as images and diagrams might be more beneficial.

In healthcare environments, reliance on automated online translation tools like Google Translate should be avoided, as the accuracy and quality of their translations cannot be assured.

This short guide aims to provide healthcare providers with practical tips for effectively working with interpreters, enhancing communication with patients who have limited English proficiency.

Briefing the Interpreter
Begin by introducing yourself and your organization to the interpreter. Clearly outline what needs to be achieved in the session, and if you require assistance in making a call, state this explicitly. The interpreter can help set the right tone by introducing you and your facility, followed by conveying your initial questions.

Direct Communication with the Patient
Always address the patient directly, as if the interpreter were not present. The interpreter will facilitate the exchange by relaying information between you and the patient. Remember to speak naturally, at your regular volume and pace.

Speaking in Segments
Convey your thoughts in one or two short sentences. Avoid breaking up a single thought as interpreters capture the overall meaning. If you speak too quickly or in lengthy segments, the interpreter may request you to slow down or repeat.

Clarifications and Understanding
If any part of the conversation is unclear, or if a long statement has been made, the interpreter may ask for clarification or repetition. Additionally, regularly check if the patient understands the information, as cultural differences might lead to misunderstandings.

Interpreter’s Role and Confidentiality
The interpreter’s role is solely to translate, without adding personal opinions. Be mindful that everything said in the presence of the interpreter will be conveyed to the patient. Avoid having private conversations or using jargon, technical terms, or idioms that might be difficult to interpret.

Managing the Session
Interpretation can double the duration of a conversation, as some concepts might not have direct equivalents in other languages. Allow the interpreter to complete their translation without interruption. When reading from a script, slow down to accommodate the interpreter’s pace.

Cultural Sensitivity
Professional interpreters are often aware of cultural nuances and may provide guidance on cultural issues or suggest rephrasing culturally sensitive questions.

Closing the Session
The interpreter will follow your lead to close the session. They will offer further assistance if needed and will be the last to disconnect from the call.

Remember, effective communication through interpreters is key to providing high-quality healthcare to patients with limited English proficiency. This guide should serve as a helpful tool in facilitating successful interactions with such patients.