Interpreter service

Do I need a professional interpreter? The husband speaks English

All Australian Emergency Departments have access to an interpreter either in person or by telephone/video 24 hours a day. They can be accessed at short notice and must be used to communicate safely, effectively and professionally with patients who are not proficient in English.

NSW Health policy forbids the use of use of bilingual staff or family members in all but life-threatening emergencies. Using staff may put the organisation at risk of error and using family members may prejudice the communication and hide matters like abuse.

Click here for the NSW Health policy on Working with Health Care Interpreters

How to organise an interpreter

In a regional Emergency Department, in almost all cases, a telephone interpreter will be used. For common languages, one is usually available within 10 minutes.

Click here for information on how to organise a telephone interpreter

The information you will need to book a telephone interpreter includes:

• Your name and designation

• Your hospital and department

• Patient's name and MRN

• Language required

• Time and duration required. The minimum duration is 15 minutes.

• Number for the interpreter to call

Make sure you use a phone with a good speaker function.