Do you know when and how to request an interpreter for a client or patient?⁠

Engaging an interpreter is strongly recommended (and in many cases required by law) when the client or service user:⁠

• requests it ⁠
• wishes to communicate in their preferred language⁠
• speaks English as a second language and is in a stressful, complex, or unfamiliar environment⁠
• seems to respond in a limited way⁠
• cannot grasp or respond to questions in English- relies on other people to interpret (friends, family, or worse yet, children)⁠
• is difficult for you to understand⁠

Keep in mind that a lot of people are not aware they have the option of having an interpreter. The interpreter can help the service user and YOU! ⁠

Please make sure to provide as much information as possible when requesting interpreting services. Our interpreters and coordinators are required to take HIPAA compliance training so we can be trusted with sensitive information. This also helps coordinators schedule the right interpreter with the right training and experience for these very unique and specialized encounters.⁠

As always, we are here to help!