Using interpretation services for those with chronic diseases
October 14, 2020
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Health information can be difficult to understand. This includes trying to communicate with your care providers and understand their advice on managing your chronic disease. There are several different obstacles that could be interfering with your ability to understand like the loss of hearing and vision, as well as having a learning disability or only knowing English as a second language. Nodding along to confusing instructions and hesitating to ask questions can interfere with your ability to manage your health. Fortunately, there are several interpretation services throughout the community that are either free of charge or can be subsidized by government funding.
For the visual or hearing impaired
Through the Canadian Hearing Services (CHS), you can book an Ontario Interpretation Services (OIS) professional to provide communication (English/French to American Sign Language) services either by video or in-person.
Services must be requested at least 3 days in advance, but the interpreters are available for service 24/7/365 (this includes after regular business hours and on weekends/holidays). The services are accessible to all who request them, however individuals that are deaf-blind or hearing impaired are often exempted from paying for any fees.
For those with a learning disability or language barrier
Individuals that know English as a second language can benefit from translation services offered by local multicultural centers. These institutions operate in regions across Ontario and employ staff who speak several languages. These services are usually offered at a fee but are reasonable due most centers operating as non-profit organizations. Quotes are always offered before service delivery.
For those with a learning disability or language barrier
Individuals that know English as a second language can benefit from translation services offered by local multicultural centers. These institutions operate in regions across Ontario and employ staff who speak several languages. These services are usually offered at a fee but are reasonable due most centers operating as non-profit organizations. Quotes are always offered before service delivery.
For more useful information and resources about chronic disease self-management, please visit VHA Home HealthCare’s Chronic Disease Self-Management specialization page.