INTERPRETIVE SERVICES
Many refugee groups come from countries that often times have numerous spoken languages and multiple dialects within these languages. Ask what language they speak, not where they are from. Ask for their I Speak card.
Option 1: An actual Interpreter
Visit www.boiseinterpreters.com - This site is very user friendly. On the home page select "Find an interpreter." Here you will find a list of local interpreters who can speak the desired language. Request that the interpreter brings certification to the appointment.
Pro: The interpreter is present so all forms of communication can be used including verbal and non-verbal.
Con: The interpreter may have biases. For example, if they know the patient outside of the appointment or with some cultures gender issues may arise.
Cost: When using a contracted interpreter through Medicaid you may use the code T1013 for billing. The fees are billed in fifteen minute increments.
Option 2: On the phone interpreter
Cyracom Clear Link Telephone (Blue phone) dial 1-800-713-4950.
Optimal 1-877-746-4674 (no contract needed).
If you are calling specifically for an interpreter and want to use the phone you are currently using chose the operator extension. If you are interested in purchasing a Clear Link telephone choose the sales extension.
Pro: Interpretive biases are avoided hopefully making it easier for the patient to be open and honest.
Con: Communication may be more difficult in some situations since only verbal communication can be used.
Cost: When using the Clear Link Telephone there are no federal reimbursement options.
Option 3: Family member
If there is no certified interpreter available, a family member may be utilized for interpretive services. *Disclaimer* Using a family member as an interpreter is not recommended by the National Council on Interpreting in Health Care (NCIHC); however, if this is the ONLY option available you may consider the following NCIHC standards of practice. For details visit www.ncihc.org. Additionally, a basic consent form will need to be signed by the patient, interpreter and health care provider.
Never use a family member who is a minor.
Pro: Interpretation can begin immediately.
Con: The family member is not a trained interpreter. This may cause some miscommunications.
Many refugee groups come from countries that often times have numerous spoken languages and multiple dialects within these languages. Ask what language they speak, not where they are from. Ask for their I Speak card.
Option 1: An actual Interpreter
Visit www.boiseinterpreters.com - This site is very user friendly. On the home page select "Find an interpreter." Here you will find a list of local interpreters who can speak the desired language. Request that the interpreter brings certification to the appointment.
Pro: The interpreter is present so all forms of communication can be used including verbal and non-verbal.
Con: The interpreter may have biases. For example, if they know the patient outside of the appointment or with some cultures gender issues may arise.
Cost: When using a contracted interpreter through Medicaid you may use the code T1013 for billing. The fees are billed in fifteen minute increments.
Option 2: On the phone interpreter
Cyracom Clear Link Telephone (Blue phone) dial 1-800-713-4950.
Optimal 1-877-746-4674 (no contract needed).
If you are calling specifically for an interpreter and want to use the phone you are currently using chose the operator extension. If you are interested in purchasing a Clear Link telephone choose the sales extension.
Pro: Interpretive biases are avoided hopefully making it easier for the patient to be open and honest.
Con: Communication may be more difficult in some situations since only verbal communication can be used.
Cost: When using the Clear Link Telephone there are no federal reimbursement options.
Option 3: Family member
If there is no certified interpreter available, a family member may be utilized for interpretive services. *Disclaimer* Using a family member as an interpreter is not recommended by the National Council on Interpreting in Health Care (NCIHC); however, if this is the ONLY option available you may consider the following NCIHC standards of practice. For details visit www.ncihc.org. Additionally, a basic consent form will need to be signed by the patient, interpreter and health care provider.
Never use a family member who is a minor.
Pro: Interpretation can begin immediately.
Con: The family member is not a trained interpreter. This may cause some miscommunications.