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Self-Assessed Competency at Working with a Medical Interpreter Is Not Associated with Knowledge of Good Practice

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  • Patricia Hudelson
  • Thomas Perneger
  • Véronique Kolly
  • Noëlle Junod Perron

Abstract

Background: Specific knowledge and skills are needed to work effectively with an interpreter, but most doctors have received limited training. Self-assessed competency may not accurately identify training needs. Purposes: The purpose of this study is to explore the association between self-assessed competency at working with an interpreter and the ability to identify elements of good practice, using a written vignette. Methods: A mailed questionnaire was sent to 619 doctors and medical students in Geneva, Switzerland. Results: 58.6% of respondents considered themselves to be highly competent at working with a professional interpreter, but 22% failed to mention even one element of good practice in response to the vignette, and only 39% could name more than one. There was no association between self-rated competency and number of elements mentioned. Conclusions: Training efforts should challenge the assumption that working with an interpreter is intuitive. Evaluation of clinicians' ability to work with an interpreter should not be limited to self-ratings. In the context of large-scale surveys, written vignettes may provide a simple method for identifying knowledge of good practice and topics requiring further training.

Suggested Citation

  • Patricia Hudelson & Thomas Perneger & Véronique Kolly & Noëlle Junod Perron, 2012. "Self-Assessed Competency at Working with a Medical Interpreter Is Not Associated with Knowledge of Good Practice," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 7(6), pages 1-6, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0038973
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0038973
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Jacobs, E.A. & Shepard, D.S. & Suaya, J.A. & Stone, E.-L., 2004. "Overcoming Language Barriers in Health Care: Costs and Benefits of Interpreter Services," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 94(5), pages 866-869.
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