Medical interpretation is critical during emergencies, ensuring that patients receive the right treatment at the right time. A study by The American Journal of Managed Care found that communication errors are a significant issue in healthcare. They account for nearly 30% of medical malpractice cases in the U.S.
Accurate interpretation helps doctors understand symptoms, allergies, and patient history while ensuring that patients comprehend their treatment clearly. In high-stakes situations where lives are at risk, every second counts. Good communication can mean the difference between life and death.
A medical interpreter is a trained professional who facilitates communication between healthcare providers and patients who speak different languages. Their role is to accurately translate medical information, ensuring that patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and any other relevant details while helping healthcare professionals get a clear understanding of the patient's concerns and symptoms. As well as, they play a crucial role in bridging language gaps to prevent misunderstandings, reduce errors, and provide equitable care to patients from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
When someone mishandles medical interpretation, serious consequences arise. A significant case happened in California, United States. A lack of a qualified interpreter led to the misdiagnosis of a patient. This mistake led to a fatal overdose.
A 2017 study found that using professional interpreters led to hospital cost savings by reducing readmissions. (Source: NIH)
Ad Astra provides interpreter services for healthcare, available in over 300 languages, who specialize in medical terminology. This service is absolutely crucial, particularly in emergencies, where accurate communication ensures patient safety and compliance with medical standards and accurate medical information.
At Ad Astra, we provide fast and reliable access to medical interpreters in all emergencies. With our Virtual Interpreting Services (VIS) and Over-the-Phone Interpretation (OPI) services, healthcare facilities can connect with a professional medical interpreter within seconds.
Hospitals that use certified interpreters see a 50% reduction in errors, according to the Joint Commission. This statistic shows how important accurate interpretation is in patient care. This is especially true when someone must make quick decisions.
At Ad Astra, our medical interpreters are not only proficient in languages but also trained in medical protocols. This ensures that interpreters do not lose any information during critical medical situations to facilitate communication. Our services are available 24/7. This means healthcare providers can always reach expert interpreters when they need help.
Don’t risk miscommunication in medical emergencies. Visit our Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Services page to learn how Ad Astra can support your medical interpretation needs.