Name of the Procedure:

Sign Language or Oral Interpretive Services, per 15 minutes
Common names: Interpreter Services, Translation Services
Medical term: T1013

Summary

This service provides professional interpretation between healthcare providers and patients who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have limited English proficiency. Interpretation is crucial for effective communication to ensure patients understand their medical conditions, treatment options, and any other healthcare instructions.

Purpose

Interpretive services help bridge communication gaps, ensuring patients receive accurate medical information and can express their health concerns effectively. The primary goals are improved patient understanding, enhanced compliance with medical instructions, and better overall healthcare outcomes.

Indications

• Patients who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• Patients who do not speak or understand English proficiently.
• Situations requiring clear communication to avoid misunderstandings that could affect patient care.

Preparation

• No special preparation is required from the patient.
• Healthcare providers should identify the need for interpretive services in advance and schedule the interpreter accordingly.

Procedure Description

1. Initiation: The healthcare provider requests the service.
2. Assignment: An interpreter is assigned and briefed on the context.
3. Interaction: The interpreter facilitates communication between the patient and healthcare provider by translating spoken or signed language.
4. Documentation: The service duration and details may be documented for billing and record-keeping purposes. Tools: Certified interpreters, possibly including technology like video relay services for sign language.
   • Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable.

Duration

Typically billed in 15-minute increments, the duration depends on the complexity of the communication required.

Setting

The service is performed in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and emergency rooms.

Personnel

• Certified medical interpreters for sign language or oral interpretation.
• Healthcare providers (doctors, nurses, etc.) involved in the patient's care.

Risks and Complications

• Misinterpretation due to varying dialects or medical terminology.
• Communication delays which may temporarily slow the medical process.
• Rarely, miscommunication despite interpretive efforts, possibly affecting patient care.

Benefits

• Improved patient comprehension.
• Enhanced communication leading to better healthcare outcomes.
• Increased patient satisfaction by ensuring their concerns and questions are understood.

Recovery

• No physical recovery needed as the service is non-invasive.
• Patients may experience reduced anxiety and increased confidence in their healthcare decisions.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to ensure comprehension and compliance.

Alternatives

• Bilingual healthcare staff, if available.
• Written translation services, though these may be less immediate.
• Non-professional interpreters like family members, though this is not recommended due to potential miscommunication.

Patient Experience

• Patients will experience a facilitated and clearer communication process.
• May initially feel unfamiliar with having an interpreter present but will likely feel more included and understood.
• Comfort measures include ensuring the patient and interpreter have a private and quiet environment to communicate effectively.