How to Interview Spanish-Speaking Patients

Language barriers provide challenges in the field of health care. Doctors who do not speak proficient Spanish may be at a disadvantage when treating Spanish-speaking patients. The barriers need not be insurmountable. Hospitals and clinics can adopt certain best practices to ensure that interviews of Spanish-speaking patients leads to the proper diagnosis and treatment. These best practices involve the choice of interpretation services and the availability of Spanish-language forms.

Instructions

• 1

  Determine what language the patient wants to speak and whether an interpreter will be necessary. Patients have the right to state whether they prefer to speak in English rather than Spanish. Ask the patient if she or he wants an interpreter.

• 2

  Choose an interpreter with experience in medical Spanish. If you suspect that an interpreter is not proficient in medical terminology, stop the interview and find a competent interpreter.

• 3

  Pre-screen patients by asking them to complete a form requesting a medical history. The form should be available in Spanish. If the patient does not write or read well, he or she may need an interpreter's help to complete the form.

• 4

  Pose questions to the patient regarding his or her history, reason for visit and any medical complaints in the presence of the interpreter. State questions directly to the patient, for example, "Are you experiencing pain today?" Do not address the interpreter as is the interpreter is the patient, and avoid saying, "Tell her that ..." or "Ask him if ... ."

• 5

  Clarify misunderstandings. If you do not understand the response given by the interpreter, repeat the question.