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General Information
Database of Interpreters
Interpreter Code of Ethics (From the Idaho Office for Refugees)
Why Hire an Interpreter?
Being bilingual is not enough. Although someone may be able to communicate in multiple languages, interpreters often have the skills that go far beyond basic communication.
Language is not just words. Interpreters may also serve the role of a cultural broker and will also interpret nuances, facial expressions and body language.
Using family and friends for interpreting may compromise the confidentiality of the client and/or you may not get accurate information about what the client wants to say.
Content may be traumatic, so it is not advised to ask children or other family members to act as interpreters.
Hiring professional interpreters descreases the risk of miscommunication.
Who Should Pay for the Cost of an Interpreter?
In general, whoever makes the formal request to the interpreter is regarded as the responsible paying party, but there are a few exceptions.
If a facility or service provider receives federal subsidies must comply with Title VI and provide language services for their clients.
For clients on Medicaid, health care facilities can bill Medicaid for reimbursement of interpreter costs.
It is important to communicate about interpreter payment with all parties if it is not clear who the responsible party is. For the interpreter, a use of an invoice (see samples below) can help alleviate any delays in payments
Working with Interpreters & Translators
Ask the client if he/she has an interpreter they prefer.
Ask the client if he/she has a preference as far as ethnicity, gender, religion, etc.
Position yourself so you have direct eye contact with the client, but both of you can hear the interpreter.
Plan longer visits when using an interpreter, as it most often takes more time.
Avoid any private conversations with the interpreter in the client's presence.
If possible, use the the same interpreter for any follow up sessions.
Vocabulary List for Interpreters
Sample Information for Providers & Interpreters:
Interpreter Session Help Sheet for Providers
Pre-Session Card for Providers
Pre-Session Card for Interpreters
Sample Contract for Interpretation Services
Sample Invoice for Interpretation
Sample Invoice for Translation