This project will address gaps in newcomer population’s access to medical services. ISB’s Inbound Call Interpreter service is designed to help close that communication gap. It benefits clients whose first language isn’t English.
AHS recognized the barriers that individuals face when accessing critical health services and turned to its Interpretation and Translation Services for a solution. TO REGISTER, CLICK HERE The program will offer a simultaneous language menu with Arabic, Ukrainian, Tigrinya, Tagalog, Spanish, French and English. AHS offers these technical services to support more effective communication. Their mission is to make sure that language is not a barrier to receiving critical medical treatment.
The pilot is set to last one year, with AHS determining the program’s effectiveness at improving health outcomes within that time frame. It is simple for clients to connect by calling their community health centre directly at 403-356-6300. There, they have access to a variety of services including newborn and postpartum care, immunizations, and nutrition assistance.
Kandice Wilson, public health director for AHS Central Zone, underscored the criticality of this work.
“We turned to AHS’ Interpretation and Translation Services to find a way to decrease those barriers between critical health services and our clients whose first language is not English. The ultimate aim is better health outcomes.” – Kandice Wilson, public health director for AHS Central Zone.
Kayathiri Ganeshamoorthy, the Provincial Program Lead for AHS Interpretation and Translation Services, highlighted the importance of this service. Her perspectives really drove home criticality’s role in addressing community needs.
“Though AHS has used interpreters for many years, this service is a first for the organization and fills a specific need to help clients navigate in a way that’s most helpful for them.” – Kayathiri Ganeshamoorthy, Provincial Program Lead, AHS Interpretation and Translation Services.
Ganeshamoorthy noted the need to provide for languages spoken most in a given area. Collectively, this initiative seeks to create equitable access to health and wellness resources for everyone.
“In addition to our country’s official languages, we are offering interpretation services in the languages most spoken in the region. We hope this increases access to critical services and makes health and wellness more equitable for all families.” – Kayathiri Ganeshamoorthy, Provincial Program Lead, AHS Interpretation and Translation Services.
