Continuity of care for long-term interpretation: what approach supports it?

• A. Change terminology between sessions
• B. Use random interpreters without handoffs
• C. Limit to a single encounter
• D. Maintain consistency, note language preferences and terminology, and coordinate with the care team for ongoing language support

Answer: (D)

Continuity of care in interpretation hinges on consistency and planning across multiple encounters. Using the same interpreter or the same qualified team across sessions builds trust and improves accuracy, reducing the risk of miscommunication that can occur when different interpreters convey terms or nuances. Documenting language preferences, dialect, and the patient’s terminology choices ensures everyone uses terminology the patient understands, preventing confusion with medical jargon. Coordinating with the care team to arrange ongoing language support means interpreters are available for future appointments and that there can be shared glossaries or terminology lists so all providers stay aligned. This approach supports clearer communication, patient safety, and equitable access to care over time.