Healthcare Interpreter Policy: Policy determinants and current issues in the Australian context

Healthcare interpreter policy comprises both the written and the unwritten actions that affect the interpreter service, its structure, funding and service provision arrangements. A model of interpreter service policy is proposed which identifies the interactive policy determinants as being: interpreter provider factors, non-English-speaking (NES) patient factors, managerial factors. health system factors, stakeholder factors, factors associated with non-health sectors and evidence and research. Interpreter policy is viewed as being nested within multicultural and mainstream healthcare policy. Using this model, the article canvasses the range of factors currently influencing healthcare interpreter policy, discusses the evidence and research related to the effectiveness of current policy, and makes suggestions for future policy directions. Key policy directions suggested include: clarification of interpreter roles and responsibilities; taking action to maximise the service reach, scope and effectiveness; developing the cultural competency of healthcare providers; and improving the health literacy of patients with limited English proficiency. It is argued that these changes must be made with an overall healthcare interpreter policy context that defines the central concern as patient safety.