The primary aim of the healthcare interpreter should be to facilitate communication between two persons who do not speak the same language.
Therefore a healthcare interpreter:
- Should never act on behalf of the user and should never speak on behalf of either party.
- Should not act as an advocate.
While a healthcare interpreter is expected to have a general understanding of the cultural background of both parties, they are not a cultural expert and should be wary when offering cultural advice.
If asked to provide a written translation of a document, a healthcare interpreter should refuse this task, as this is the role of a translator, and not an interpreter.
Before a session – Where possible, the interpreter should avoid situations where s/he is left waiting with the non-English speaker for an appointment. If this is not possible, the interpreter should avoid discussing any medical history or concerns.
At the start of a session – The interpreter should explain to all parties that s/he is there to interpret, s/he will respect confidentiality, and will interpret everything that is said.
During the session – The interpreter sits to the side, out of the eyeline of the healthcare worker and the patient. The interpreter should respect the physical privacy of the patient during any examination.
At the end of the session – the healthcare worker should, if the conversation has been a difficult or stressful one, check that the interpreter is not too distressed by what has been discussed.
The healthcare worker should ensure that paperwork/invoices are signed to support the payment of the interpreter