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, whether it be at home, or at one of our locations, you may be assisted by phone, video call or in person. There are several types of services available at Scripps:
- Scripps Friendly Voices Interpreters: Qualified in-person staff who are professionally validated to interpret medical information
- Language Interpreter Service: Via telephone or video call on a mobile tablet
- American Sign Language (ASL) or other sign language:
- Video Relay Service (VRS): You may provide a dedicated VRS number for Scripps staff to call you at home. If you are a current Scripps patient, this contact method can be added to your electronic medical record.
- Voicemail messages using VRS: The interpreter sends the message through the VRS platform when the patient is at home or not at a Scripps facility.
- Text messaging (mobile phone): Direct written communication without using an interpreter.
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 words can be hard to understand. A trained medical interpreter helps explain medical information and terms in the language you prefer. They make sure patients and families understand things like medical procedures, diagnoses and treatment options. Interpreters also share important details with your provider so they understand about your medical history, symptoms, concerns and goals.
At Scripps, we work with skilled interpreters to help you and your family feel confident that communication with your doctor is clear. This can give you extra peace of mind. Interpreters also follow strict rules to keep your information private.
Scripps offers free medical interpretation services to make it easier for you and your family to talk with your health care team. We’re here for you.