Cutting Corners: Provider Perceptions of Interpretation Services and Factors Related to Use of an Ad Hoc Interpreter. (June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mayo, Rachel; Parker, Veronica G.; Sherrill, Windsor W.; Coltman, Kinneil; Hudson, Matthew F.; Nichols, Christina M.; Yates, Adam M.; Pribonic, Anne Paige
• Is Part Of: Hispanic health care international. Volume 14:Number 2(2016)
• Page Start: 73
• Page End: 80
• Publication Date: 2016-06
• Subjects: communication barriers -- language -- health care disparities -- health services accessibility -- health services research; barreras de comunicación -- lenguaje -- disparidades de salud -- accesibilidad de servicios de salud -- investigación de los servicios de salud; Hispanic Americans -- Medical care -- Periodicals; Hispanic Americans -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; Hispanic Americans -- Health and hygiene; Hispanic Americans -- Medical care; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 362.108968073
• DOI: 10.1177/1540415316646097
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1540-4153

Abstract

Introduction: This study assessed health providers' perceptions of factors related to professional interpretation services and the association between these factors and the potential use of ad hoc interpreters. Method: Data were collected from a convenience sample of 150 health services providers at a large, regional health system in South Carolina. Results: Providers rated "ability to communicate effectively during a clinical encounter" as paramount regarding the use of interpretation services. The most important factors related to the likely use of ad hoc interpreters (cutting corners) included locating a qualified interpreter, having to wait for a qualified interpreter, and technical difficulties regarding phone and video technology. Conclusion: Health care organizations may benefit from increasing staff awareness about patient safety and legal and regulatory risks involved with the use of ad hoc interpreters.