Interpretation
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The role of the interpreter is to help establish direct communication between the health-care professional and the individual choosing to communicate in the language of their choice.
Interpretation services are in place to ensure that all individuals have equal access to high-quality care regardless of the language they speak or sign. Effective communication is important across the spectrum of care and services.
Eastern Health provides in-person French interpretation services at health-care sites within the St. John’s metro area and over-the-phone interpretation services for any patient, resident, client or substitute decision maker who feels more comfortable using French to speak with their health-care provider.
Interpretation services in other languages are also available.
Routine French interpretation services
Non-urgent French interpretation services for non-Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon patients, clients, and residents can be requested via the francophone health system navigator.
The francophone health system navigator can arrange an interpreter for your appointment at Eastern Health or assist with your interpretation needs if you are admitted for care at an Eastern Health site. The navigator can also help link patients and clients to available health-care services outside of Eastern Health.
811 Health Line
If you have specific questions about your health, please call the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Line at 811 to speak to a registered nurse or a registered dietician 24 hours a day, seven days a week about any health issue or concern. 811 is a confidential and free telephone line available to all residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. Call 811 at any time, day or night. Services can be requested in French.
Learn more about the Newfoundland and Labrador Health Line at 811healthline.ca.
French interpretation services during an emergency
In a medical emergency, always call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department.
If you are a French-speaking patient who requires a medical interpreter immediately, ask your health-care provider to request the on-call French interpreter via the Health Sciences Centre hospital switchboard at 709-777-6300.
Printable ‘I speak French” cards (PDF)
Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon clients (only)
Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., please contact the Bureau d’interprétariat et d’accompagnement (BIA) at 709-800-6190.
Evenings and weekends, your health-care provider can call the switchboard at the Health Sciences Centre at 709-777-6300 to page the on-call French interpreter.