ACC_08EngagingAccess and Flexibility
Recording Language Needs and Interpreter Requirement
Summary
Routinely code patients' preferred spoken language and interpreter requirements to ensure consistent communication support at every interaction.
Supporting information
Accurate recording of language needs ensures patients receive appropriate communication support at every interaction. This systematic approach prevents language barriers compromising quality of care or patient safety.
Approaches to implementation:
- Update registration processes to capture preferred language and interpreter needs
- Train staff on the importance of accurate language coding for patient safety
- Create prompts in clinical systems to check and update language information
- Establish clear processes for booking interpreters based on recorded needs
- Regularly audit language data completeness and accuracy
Key benefits: Improves patient safety by ensuring consistent communication support, enables better planning of interpreter services, and demonstrates organisational commitment to overcoming language barriers in healthcare.
Resources
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