Why can I use my family or friends or bilinigual workers to interpret for me?
Queensland Health policy is to use interpreters who are NAATI trained (either accredited or recognized by NAATI). Your family or friends or bilingual workers are not NAATI accredited or recognised interpreters. There are significant risks in communicating through unaccredited interpreters: • inaccuracy because you cannot be certain an unaccredited interpreter is competent in both languages • possible withholding or distorting information because of family relationships or due to the emotional or sensitive nature of the issues at stake • possible inadequate communication because of lack of knowledge of interpreting techniques • staff unable to be assured that information necessary for safe and quality health care is being communicated appropriately and accurately • confidentiality standards may not be met. These risks can lead to: • inappropriate health care decisions being made or decisions being made by someone other than the person receiving the health service • incorrect use of medi
