Clinic
On-Site Interpreter Services
|
x5-6262 (Spanish only) |
In AIM
West, full time Spanish
interpreters are stationed in the back
of VC205; simply call x5-6262 to request help.
If there
are no interpreters available, you may use the “Pacific Translators Phone
Line.” This phone call will automatically connect you to a language
bank that can be used for interpretations. Instructions for use, as well as the
phone number and access code are attached to the phones in each exam
room. Once connected, provide your name, department (AIM Clinic), and the
language needed. This service is also useful for brief conversations, and when
calling pts at home.
For other
languages, including sign language, you should call the “Volunteer
Interpreter Corps” at x5-9607. The VIC is located on PH2 (right
around the corner from AIM West) and is open Monday through Friday from 9am to
5pm and Saturday from 10am to 2pm.
A few
tips:
·
Time management is
crucial! Call the interpreters early. If they are not available go ahead and use
your speaker phone translator.
·
First,
quickly review for the medical interpreter the goals of the encounter.
·
If
there is something you do not want the patient to hear, don't say it. The
interpreters do not edit.
·
When
reviewing complex medical information, speak slowly, and allow the interpreter
time to process the proper translation.
·
Do
not ask interpreters for opinions, comments, or suggestions about the patient's
history.
·
Face
and speak directly to the patient, not the interpreter. Make eye contact and
speak in first person to the patient.
·
If
information does not seem clear, ask the interpreter to clarify by repeating
your statement back to you in English.
·
When
you leave the room, so does the interpreter. Aim to keep
their service time to you at no more than 25 minutes,
this will help to free them up for other providers.
·
Document
that you used an interpreter. That way, you'll also know to call one in advance
the next time you see the patient.
·
Relatives
and friends of the patient do not make the best interpreters. Even if a family
member speaks English, calling in a trained medical interpreter is best. If you
do have to use an ad hoc interpreter (employee, family, friend) be sure to
first assess his/her English proficiency (ask if he/she is comfortable with the
task, engage him/her in basic conversation). As him/her to interpret exactly
what the patient says, and not to edit or summarize the information. Never use
a minor (under 18) to interpret personal information unless in an emergency
situation. Always be aware of potential
issues of confidentiality or conflict of interest between the patient and the
interpreter.
ACCESS OUR EXPERIENCED POOL OF
LIAISON-INTERPRETER’S BY DIALING Ext. 5-6262. IF YOU ARE AT AIM WEST THEIR STATION IS
LOCATED IN THE BACK OF SUITE VC 205.
IF YOU ARE AT AIM EAST, THERE IS ONE
INTERPRETER ON SITE FROM THE POOL OF INTERPRETERS, ON A ROTATION BASES.
·
THEY ASSIST PATIENTS AND STAFF WITH LANGUAGE
NEEDS (INTERPRETING SERVICES AND SIDE TRANSLATION).
·
THEY CARRY YEARS OF EXPERIENCE WORKING
ALONGSIDE AIM PHYSICIANS IN INNUMERABLE PATIENT ENCOUNTERS. BEYOND TRANSLATING,
THEY HELP NEW AIM PHYSICIANS NAVIGATE PATIENT CARE RESOURCES ON-SITE.
·
THEY ACT AS LIAISONS BETWEEN THE MEDICAL
STAFF AND OUR PATIENTS, PRACTICING EXCELLENT COMMUNICATION SKILLS AND TEACHING
OF CULTURAL AWARENESS.
Other Resources
Anny Eusebio
our NP has also recommended this website http://www.spanishdict.com/translation