The recent BBC investigation into the National Health Service (NHS) in England has highlighted a critical and often overlooked aspect of healthcare – the vital role of human translators and interpreters. The investigation uncovered a tragic reality – interpreting issues contributed to at least 80 babies dying or suffering serious brain injuries between 2018 and 2022. This statistic emphasizes the crucial importance of effective communication in healthcare settings, particularly for patients who do not speak English.
Rana Abdelkarim and Modar Mohammednour’s case is a tragic example of the terrible consequences that can arise from limited English proficiency. The couple arrived in England from Sudan and had difficulty understanding the language. Unfortunately, their experience at a maternity unit turned out to be devastating, as Ms. Abdelkarim was induced without their clear comprehension, which ultimately led to her death. Mr. Mohammednour noted that this tragedy could have been prevented if the interpreting services were better.
Such instances are not isolated. Rula, another patient, experienced significant communication barriers leading to a life-altering medical decision – the removal of her womb – without her fully informed consent. The reliance on online translation tools like Google Translate in critical situations, as reported, is alarming. These tools, while useful for basic translations, fall short in conveying nuanced medical information and understanding patients’ concerns.
The Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch (HSIB) discovered that delays in seeking specialist assistance and inadequate communication with non-English speaking patients were widespread issues. The National Register of Public Service Interpreters has also emphasized the risks associated with poorly managed language services in healthcare, which can result in misdiagnosis and, in the most severe cases, fatalities.
The 2010 Equalities Act requires the use of interpreters in public sector interactions, but the interpreting services in the NHS seem to be insufficient. Language barriers are making disparities in outcomes for women of color even worse, as highlighted by Professor Hassan Shehata from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.
It is crucial to re-evaluate the significance of human translators and interpreters in healthcare. While technological advancements have their own advantages, they cannot replace the emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and detailed communication that trained human interpreters offer. The NHS’s dedication to reviewing and enhancing its language services is a positive step towards improving the healthcare system.
It is crucial for healthcare providers to understand that language barriers are not simply a logistical problem, but a critical factor that can affect patient outcomes and safety. Investing in skilled and professional translators and interpreters is not only a legal obligation under the Equalities Act, but a moral duty to ensure fair and secure healthcare for all. The tragedies that have occurred in the NHS serve as a reminder to healthcare systems across the globe about the invaluable contribution of human translators and interpreters in providing safe, effective, and empathetic care.
