FOI_8172

Internal Reference Number: FOI_8172

Date Request Received: 20/09/2024 00:00:00

Date Request Replied To: 20/09/2024 00:00:00

This response was sent via: By Email

Request Summary: Hospital Translation

Request Category: Private Individuals


Question Number 1: Please could you state if your hospital Trust has a specific written policy/guidelines on what should happen when a translator/interpreter is accompanying a patient and they are in a queue for a clinic; specifically in relation to whether the patient and the translator/interpreter are moved forward in the queue? If so, could you provide me with a copy of that policy/guidelines. NOTE: My understanding is that Trusts have a policy to move the translator/interpreter and their patient to the top of the queue, because the translator/interpreter is being paid for their time and the longer they have to wait the more expensive the process becomes. This question is seeking to see if that is the case at your Trust and whether you have a formal policy/guideline on the issue to save NHS money.

Answer To Question 1: This specific matter is not addressed in our translation and interpreting policy. The Trust do not move patients to the top of the waiting list just because they have an interpreter. It is done fairly and in turn of appointment time.

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Our staff at Salisbury District Hospital have long been well regarded for the quality of care and treatment they provide for our patients and for their innovation, commitment and professionalism. This has been recognised in a wide range of achievements and it is reflected in our award of NHS Foundation Trust status. This is afforded to hospitals that provide the highest standards of care.