Increasing Health Care Workers’ Proficiency With Using Professional Medical Interpretation: A Workshop

Date of Review: May, 2023

This 90-minute workshop which can be found on MedEdPORTAL focuses on the proficient use of  professional interpretation services for patients whose native language is not English, sometimes referred to as patients with limited English proficiency (LEP). The resource involves both case discussions and role-playing for three interpretation scenarios: in-person, phone and video. The scenarios can apply to a multi-disciplinary team, meaning the workshop can be implemented across all levels of learners in any healthcare profession. The resource contains a facilitator guide, a participant packet and a workshop evaluation that can be easily implemented. The discussion guide highlights common mistakes when using interpreters in a manner that doesn’t make learners feel guilty about anything they’ve done previously. Learners will leave the session with many resources for further learning. The format of the workshop requires small groups to ensure active engagement, so multiple facilitators comfortable leading discussions about interpretation are required (recommended 1:4-7 ratio with minimum of 3 facilitators). This resource could be applied easily in pre-clinical and clinical settings when introducing the professional interpretive services available or to prepare for wards. -Emily Olsen, MD (edited by: Ashti Doobay-Persaud, MD)

Corresponding Author’s Email:

jdjones27@gmail.com

Institution:

Stanford School of Medicine

Where was the Curriculum Implemented:

Palo Alto, CA

Outcomes that Have Been Reported for the Curriculum:

Learner Satisfaction or reaction

Self-reported learner attitude

Outcome and Study Design:

Post Only

Level of Learner Assessment

Appreciation of content/attitude assessment (self-reflection, blogging with rubric)