It is important that you and your family are able to ask questions and get answers about your health in your own language. If English is not your first language, or you need assistance when speaking to your doctor, do not be afraid to ask for a translator.
As well as impartiality and greater accuracy, professional interpreter services are preferred over family or friends translating for a patient because they:
- enhance our provision of quality patient care
- ensure confidentiality
- understand the importance of risk management
- provide efficient, effective communication of information in sometimes time-critical situations
- always adhere to professional conduct, not being emotionally involved with patients.
Our practice may engage the following services:
- National Relay Service(NRS) for deaf and hearing-impaired patients.
- Translation and Interpreter Service(TIS) for NESB patients.
All our GPs have access to the Translating and Interpreting Policy to obtain a translator over the phone.
If you let the reception team know ahead of time it can be organised for your GP appointment.
If you need resources in your language, you can access these websites to get information in your own language:
- Victorian Government Health Information, Health Translations Directory
- NSW Health, Multicultural Health Communication Service
- Department of Health and Ageing, Translated Resources
