Working With Interpreters During International Health Responses

Abstract

ABSTRACTHealth care providers face multiple difficulties in providing care to a disaster-stricken community. Training, preparation, and a good attitude are important, as is adequate logistical support. An often-ignored issue is the difficulty encountered with language barriers during a response, and how using interpreters affects the quality and impact of the health care provided. This article reviews the use of interpreters and focuses on how they may affect an international health care response.(Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2011;5:159–163)