Medical Interpreters and Language Assistance Services
Request interpreter services in your preferred language
Request interpreter services in your preferred language
Communicating with your Scripps Health care team is important to us. Our goal is to explain your health information in a way that is easy for you to understand. If a patient has difficulty with sight, speech or hearing, or has limited English proficiency (LEP), we have several options to connect you with a qualified medical interpreter.
Do you need language assistance?
Interpreters are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you would like a medical interpreter, ask our staff during your clinic visit or hospital stay. You can also request an interpreter when you are calling to make an appointment.
To translate our entire website into a different language, please Open our Accessibility Menu and click “English (USA)” to select your preferred language. You can also open the accessibility menu by clicking the blue accessibility icon on the bottom left corner of your screen. You can then type in the language search box or scroll through the list of available languages.
Please read our web accessibility statement to learn more about our commitment to ensuring our services are accessible to everyone.
What can you expect?
When you request an interpreter, you might be assisted by phone, video call or in person. Four types of services are available at Scripps:
- Scripps Friendly Voices Interpreters: Qualified in-person staff who are professionally validated to interpret medical information
- Language Interpreter Service: Via a Scripps telephone or tablet video call
- American Sign Language (ASL): Via tablet video call
- TDD/TTY – Telecommunication Device for the Deaf (TDD)/Teletypewriter (TTY): A small typewriter-style instrument that allows for direct telephone call access
Hundreds of languages are available over the phone or tablet. Phone interpretation is like a three-way call between the patient, Scripps staff and a professional interpreter. Video interpretation is like a video visit between the patient, Scripps staff and a remote interpreter.
Why use a qualified medical interpreter?
Medical terminology can be difficult to understand. A qualified medical interpreter accurately translates medical information and terminology into your preferred language. This includes explaining medical procedures, diagnoses and treatment options to patients and family members. Interpreters also help your providers understand your medical history, symptoms, concerns and goals.
Rather than asking a family member or friend to interpret what your health care provider said, a qualified interpreter offers you and your family extra peace of mind that communication with your provider is understood correctly. In addition, the interpreter adheres to our patient confidentiality policies.
Free medical interpretation services are offered at Scripps to ensure you and your family can easily communicate with your care team. We’re here for you.