Auslan interpreter improving hospital experiences for Deaf and hard of hearing patients

In collaboration with Expression Australia, Monash Health is piloting an Auslan interpreter sessional placement to provide patients with timely access to language services.

This pilot will offer patients whose primary language of communication is Auslan (Australian Sign Language) access to an interpreter during their visit to Monash Health sites.

Expression Australia is a specialised agency providing professional and culturally sensitive services to Deaf and hard of hearing people. This collaboration between Monash Health and Expression Australia allows an interpreter to be on placement at Monash Medical Centre to provide better access and a quicker response to urgent requests.

Monash Health Language Services receive 60 to 70 requests for Auslan interpreters per month, with increasing demand for these services.

Mili Plecic, Manager of Language Services at Monash Health, said this pilot would be effective in improving patient experiences at our sites.

“Deaf and hard of hearing people need to have proper access to their preferred language in a medical setting. If the language needs of Auslan users are not met in medical settings, it can result in missing critically important information or being unable to make fully informed decisions concerning their health needs,” said Mr Plecic.

The sessional interpreter will be based at Monash Medical Centre and available between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays. Auslan interpreters can be arranged for video relay interpreting (VRI) and in-person interpreting. Interpreters are also available to travel between hospital sites to assist with in-person interpreting.

To arrange an interpreter, speak to one of our employees to place a request on the Interpreter Booking System on your behalf.