A medical interpreter helps in overcoming challenges that may arise between patients and health care professionals. A medical interpreter is a trained professional bound by a code of ethics and works face to face with both doctors and patients. A medical interpreter’s task comprises interpreting communication by neither adding nor deleting information at any time. Sometimes interpreting requires more than converting in equivalent terms-a small utterance in source language may need a longer utterance in the target language.
Since the doctors and health professionals can make more accurate diagnoses and manage patients better with the help of interpreters, many hospitals opt for …show more content…
He must ensure accuracy and confidentiality in what the patient divulges to him. The interpreter should ask clarifying questions for accuracy. Any independent conversation with the client must be revealed to ensure transparency and impartiality. The interpreter must maintain a professional and neutral approach. The patients’ well- being should be the sole priority.
# Cultural Interface
The interpreter must possess cultural understanding to comprehend the unspoken meaning behind a person’s word. He should be able to translate the spirit of a person’s communication considering cultural factors.
# Interpreters should be called in early
The earlier a medical interpreter gets involved in a patient’s care, the better it is. This enables smooth and quick interaction between the doctor and the patient.
# The Interpreter must be given time to prepare
It will be beneficial if the doctor and the interpreter have a short meeting before seeing the patient for better clarification. The interpreter can suggest ways to obtain information in a culturally sensitive manner. A preconference between the clinician and interpreter can bridge cultural gaps.
# The Interpreter should speak directly to the