Diversity and Alberta Health Services

Diversity Programs and Services

Interpretation and Translation Services

The goal of Interpretation and Translation Services is to provide effective, coordinated, equitable and operationally efficient regional interpretation and translation services that address the communication needs of patients/clients and health care providers. Interpretation and Translation Services provides the following services:

Certified health care interpreters are available to provide in-person or over the phone interpretation in 20 of the most commonly spoken languages where an interpreter is required in Calgary and area. Certified health care interpreters:

Are employees of Alberta Health Services,

have proven language proficiency in English and the target language(s); and

have successfully completed a certificate program in health care interpreting.

Sign Language Interpreters are available 24/7 and provide in-person services for Persons who are Deaf and hard of hearing in Calgary.
Translation of a variety of health related materials, including patient education materials, vaccination records, medical records and other documents.

Documents:

Best Practices in Interpretation and Translation Services: Literature Review and Environmental Scan (2008) A review of the issues, barriers, models, standards and codes of ethics for interpreter services.

Resources:

How do I know if my client requires an Interpreter? and How Can I Work Effectively with an Interpreter

Checklist for Communicating Effectively with people who have limited English Proficiency

Interpretation and Translation Services Manager: Louise Behiel
Phone: 403-955-1199
Fax: 403-955-1190
Email: louise.behiel@albertahealthservices.ca