How having an interpreter affects access to healthcare

Melanie Fontes Rainer, Director of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR), released a statement that highlighted how, in some communities, healthcare appointments were canceled because there were no interpreters available. This demonstrates their need in communities where a communication barrier exists between the patient and the healthcare provider.

How interpreters enhance access to healthcare

Studies have shown how having an interpreter can: 

• Improve communication: Interpreters bridge language gaps, enabling clear communication between healthcare providers and patients. This ensures accurate medical histories, proper diagnoses, and clear treatment plans, minimizing misunderstandings that can lead to medical errors.
• Reduce health disparities: Language barriers can exacerbate health inequities by limiting access to information and services. Providing interpreters helps ensure that non-native speakers or individuals with limited language proficiency receive equitable care.
• Ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards: In many countries, healthcare providers are legally required to ensure effective communication under laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. Interpreters help meet these requirements while maintaining ethical care standards.
• Increase efficiency: While it may seem counterintuitive, having an interpreter often streamlines the care process. Miscommunication leads to repeat visits, unnecessary tests, or prolonged treatment. Interpreters reduce these inefficiencies, improving outcomes and saving time.

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Challenges and considerations

• Training and certification: Not all interpreters are adequately trained in medical terminology, which can impact the quality of communication.
• Access and availability: Rural areas or low-resource settings may lack access to qualified interpreters.
• Privacy concerns: Patients might hesitate to share sensitive information in the presence of an interpreter, especially if the interpreter is from the same community.

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FAQs

What types of interpreters are available in healthcare?

• On-site interpreters: Professionals physically present during the consultation.
• Telephonic interpreters: Interpreters available over the phone, useful for immediate needs.
• Video remote interpreters (VRI): Visual and auditory communication through video platforms.
• Community or family interpreters: Non-professionals like family members, though not recommended due to potential bias and lack of medical knowledge.

What is the role of technology in healthcare interpretation?

Technological solutions, such as AI-based translation tools or telehealth interpretation services, are becoming more common. They enhance accessibility but may lack the cultural nuance provided by human interpreters.

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