Medical Interpreting isn’t new. In fact, this very important profession has been around for decades. Medical Interpreting helps both patients and healthcare providers to break down language barriers to have more positive medical outcomes. 

Of course, a medical interpreter is a highly skilled individual who possesses a plethora of knowledge in more than one language and who knows medical terminology for at least 2 languages.  

So how is medical interpreting changing the game? Keep reading to find out.

What is Medical Interpreting?

A medical interpreter is defined as someone who is fluent in at least two languages. Medical Interpreters facilitate conversations between healthcare providers and patients. Usually, the setting doesn’t matter but the majority of the time medical interpretation services take place either over the phone or through video calls. 

It is important to note that medical interpreting isn’t a regular type of interpreting service that is provided. A medical interpreter must have an understanding of medical terminologies in order to do well in the field and assist both the patients and the health care provider effectively. 

In addition to this, 100% accuracy should also take priority as no mistakes can be made especially if there is a life or death situation at hand. 

Why medical interpreters matter  

The Covid-19 pandemic that is currently plaguing the world is the perfect example of the crucial role medical interpreters play within the healthcare system. We can use the United States of America for example. 

Now more than ever, over 300 languages are spoken on a daily basis within work and other social spaces. With the rapid spread of the virus, more medical practitioners are coming into contact with non-English speakers. In order for doctors to help non-English speakers in an effective manner, on-demand medical interpreting helps in a meaningful way. 

This is where DayInterpreting and the DayInterpreting mobile app come in. Providing 24/7 on-demand over-the-phone medical interpreting services with just the click of a button. 

Our specialized team of on-demand interpreters are always available to help in the following areas plus more:

• Visits to a General Practitioner

A language barrier should never prevent anyone from receiving the medical care they need. Having a highly qualified and accurate medical interpreter on-demand helps the doctor’s visit to be more successful.

• If you want to be part of a clinical trial

Without informed consent, no one is legally considered to be part of a clinical trial. As the subject of a clinical trial, there must be a full understanding of the risks involved along with all the should you agree to take part. 

The consent forms will be in the native language of the trial candidate but an on-demand interpreter can also be present to assist both the patient and the members of staff in case any questions need to be answered as well as to discuss side effects.

• Discussions for treatment during hospitalization

Similar to the need for an interpreter at a regular doctor’s visit, the need for an on-demand medical interpreter is needed when a non-English speaking patient is hospitalized. 

The difference that exists here is that special treatment is being offered which also means that time is of the essence where communicating is concerned. There may be an increase in communication among the patient, their family, and the healthcare providers. 

Important decisions may also have to be made which means that a highly skilled medical interpreter is required to get the job done effectively and safely for all involved.  

• Medical home visits

The rise in medical home visits can be attributed to the ongoing pandemic. It may be a safer option to have a healthcare provider come to you, depending on what the situation is. As a result of this, in case there is a language difference, either the patient or the medical practitioner can make use of on-demand interpreting services to have a smoother and more effective visit.

• Medical consultations

Thanks to technology, a medical practitioner does not have to have a consultation in person anymore. Instead, through the use of well-designed applications a medical consultation can happen on your own time in the comfort of your home or anywhere else that suits you. In that same breath, a medical interpreter can be there with you every step of the way to ensure there is no misinterpretation. 

Wrapping up

Medical interpreting has changed the game by upping the way both patients and healthcare providers alike operate. Medical interpreters bridge the language gap, allowing everyone involved to have a safe and accurate conversation, lowering the risk of mistakes or even possible death. 

With this in mind, here at DayInterpreting are here to help you with your next doctor’s visit or with any other medical or health-related encounter you’re going to have.

Kayan Milwood

Kayan is a multi-talented writer based in the beautiful island of Jamaica. Her strong point is ideation and she loves to take on new challenges.