Using Professionally Trained Interpreters to Increase Patient/Provider Satisfaction: Does It Work?

Publication Date: February 2010

Publisher:

Author(s): Ann Bagchi; Ann Bagchi; Ann Bagchi; Ann Bagchi

Research Area: Health

Keywords: Trained Interpreters; Emergency Department; Health; English Speakers

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

Communication between patients and providers is critical in hospital emergency departments, but most interpretive services for non-English speakers--often provided via telephone or ad hoc by untrained bilingual staff or family member(s)--vary in quality. This issue brief identifies how professional interpreters improve communication and, consequently, patient and provider satisfaction in the emergency department.