Interpreter services

Interpreter services are free of charge. Patients who have difficulties communicating in English are entitled to a professional interpreter.

It is against Southern Health policy and not appropriate for children under 18 years to act as an interpreter for a family member.

Our interpreters are accredited by NAATI Level 3 (the National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters) and provide independent, unbiased, confidential, complete and accurate interpreting for both parties.

It is important to have an interpreter particularly when:
  • a patient does not understand what staff are saying
  • a patient does not understand anything they are required to sign
  • it would be easier to communicate with staff in a patient's native language
It is a patient's responsibility to let staff know if you they are unable to attend an appointment, in case an interpreter has been booked.

Accessing an interpreter

Staff will identify the need for an interpreter, but if this has not happened, do not hesitate to ask for this support at any point in care.

Useful links
Eastern Health's Cue Cards
Available in the majority of languages and a useful tool for carers, patients and clinicians