Distance learning as an effective tool for medical interpreting training in Turkey

Abstract

This study addresses the need for trained medical interpreters in various local/ ethnic languages especially at public health institutions in Turkey, and argues that distance learning would be an effective tool for medical interpreting training, given the particular constraints of the situation. Designed to meet the respective needs of different target groups, two certificate programmes are proposed: a three-month programme for health professionals and a one-year programme for prospective medical interpreters. These certificate programmes involve delivery of the theoretical content by distance mode in addition to face-to-face interpreting practice guided by professional interpreter trainers and experts of the local/ ethnic languages concerned.

Role and Ethics in Healthcare Interpreting in Turkey

“…With regard to training of healthcare interpreters, Güven (2014) addresses the need for trained medical interpreters at public health institutions in Turkey. Thus, Güven (2014) argues that distance learning (DL) would be an effective tool for medical interpreter training in Turkey. In this regard, Güven (2014) proposes possible certificate programs for the abovementioned distance learning program.…”

“…Thus, Güven (2014) argues that distance learning (DL) would be an effective tool for medical interpreter training in Turkey. In this regard, Güven (2014) proposes possible certificate programs for the abovementioned distance learning program. Apart from Güven (2014), there is an MA thesis (Öztürk, 2015) and a book published in (Turan, 2016).…”

“…In this regard, Güven (2014) proposes possible certificate programs for the abovementioned distance learning program. Apart from Güven (2014), there is an MA thesis (Öztürk, 2015) and a book published in (Turan, 2016). In her MA thesis, Öztürk aims at giving an overview about healthcare interpreting services, mainly healthcare interpreting services provided for medical tourism.…”

“…Accordingly, there are no codes of ethics and conduct or standards that define the role of healthcare interpreters in Turkey. According to Güven (2014), 15% of the adult population is estimated to have a native language other than Turkish. Indicating that the citizens who are illiterate also need interpreters, Güven (2014) assumes that 10% of the illiterate adult population (approximately 265, 464 people) visits a hospital administered by the Ministry of Health 3.5 times a year.…”

Editorial

“…The first (Güven, 2014) is a needs analysis for community interpreters especially for medical interpreting in Turkey and a proposal for two training programmes: one for medical professionals and one for interpreters who will work with them, to be delivered within Turkey by new modes of distance education. This paper follows on well from Youssef's paper.…”