Is there a difference between a trained and untrained interpreter?
Many studies report that untrained interpreters commit more mistakes when interpreting than trained interpreters; these errors include omissions, additions, substitutions and distortions in the meaning of the message. Lack of language proficiency and training accounts for most of these errors. Studies also have found that these errors are of potential clinical consequences that can and do lead to serious harms to the patients. To read personal stories of limited English proficient patients who were not provided with a trained health care interpreter, we invite you to read, “In the Absence of Words”.
