CHIA Guidance on Interpreter Roles and Interventions Flashcards
Various barriers to cross-cultural communication exist. These include language differences, language complexity, and differences in cultural norms, in addition to organizational or broader systemic barriers facing LEP patients.
Role 1. Message Converter
In the message converter role interpreters listen to both speakers, observe body language, and convert the meaning of all messages from one language to another, without unnecessary additions, deletions, or changes in meaning.
Role 2. Message Clarifier
Interpreters acting in the message clarifier role are alert for possible words or concepts that might lead to a misunderstanding.
Role 3. Cultural Clarifier
The cultural-clarifier role goes beyond word clarification to include a range of actions that typically relate to an interpreter’s ultimate purpose of facilitating communication between parties not sharing a common culture. Interpreters are alert to cultural words or concepts that might lead to a misunderstanding,
triggering a shift to the cultural clarifier role.
Role 4. Patient Advocate
Healthcare interpreters enter into the patient advocate role when they actively support change in the interest of patient health and wellbeing. Interpreters require a clear rationale for the need to advocate on behalf of patients.
