Learning that a child has CHD is difficult for every family. This situation can be even more challenging if there is a language barrier that makes it harder to talk with your medical team.
It is the responsibility of a physician’s office and a hospital to provide medical interpreters that will help your family and your medical team communicate effectively. This is very important because you will need to discuss complicated medical issues and decisions that will affect you and your child’s life. A medical interpreter should always translate for you – never ask a family member or friend to do the interpretation.
Every medical provider wants to give you and your child the best care possible. If English is not your primary language, the medical team would like to know which language you prefer to speak so they can provide a medical interpreter.
It is very helpful for your physicians to know that you need an interpreter before your appointment so that your language needs can be accommodated. Your medical team must be able to communicate well with you so you can be a strong member of the team caring for your child.
Please feel comfortable asking for a medical interpreter at all times on your CHD care journey. Every effort will be made to provide you with an interpreter in your preferred language.
The Fundamentals of Working With an Interpreter
Who Can Have an Interpreter
Any person – no matter their legal status in the U.S. – can have an interpreter. It is a legal right. You will not be charged a fee for the interpreter.
When You Can Get an Interpreter
You may request an interpreter at any time before and during a clinical visit, in the hospital (no matter what time of the day or night), or to help translate paperwork. This includes regular outpatient provider visits, a fetal echocardiogram and other tests, your baby’s delivery, rounds at the hospital, and before and after your child’s surgery.
Ask for What You Need
Do not be afraid to say what you need. It is not a problem or an inconvenience to request an interpreter any time you want one. It’s okay if it takes longer to complete a visit when you have an interpreter. Your physician wants you to receive medical information in the language you are most comfortable with.
Ask Why Until You Understand
Sometimes you don’t understand an explanation the first time, or you need to hear it again. It is okay to ask for more information until you comprehend. This is normal. Your medical professionals and interpreters understand that you will have questions and need them to be answered to best care for your child.
PARENT TIPConnect With Other Families
Many parents benefit from connecting with other families who have children with heart problems because they can talk about their similar experiences. CHD affects babies and children across the world. There are social networking and online support groups for many nationalities and languages, but it may be challenging to find these resources in your native language. Ask your hospital or clinic social worker if they can help you meet other CHD families who speak your language so you can build connections and a support network.
FAQs
Chandani DeZure, Parent
Flora Nunez Gallegos, Physician
Sarah Vega Grove, Parent
Jessica Jones, Physician
Marta Moyano, Medical Spanish Interpreter
Marsha Perez, Parent Mentor
Daniela Rey-Ardilla, Latinx Family Resource Program Lead
Ellen Zemarkowitz, Social Worker
See the full list of contributors to the CHD Care Compass
Last Update: October 13, 2023