Healthcare Interpretation Network

Language is one of the biggest barriers faced by newcomers when trying to access services in Canada. Research shows the lack of trained interpreters in the delivery of healthcare contributes to misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment and referral. Advocating for appropriate linguistic access strategies has been a key part of advocacy for Access Alliance since our inception. One vehicle for this work has been the Healthcare Interpretation Network (HIN). Founded in 1990 and incorporated in 2004, HIN is a not-for-profit organization that provides a forum for:

• The development of strategies to promote awareness of the language barriers that inhibit the quality of health care provided to patient populations with limited English proficiency (LEP) in Ontario.
• The recognition of the need for the development of standards to guide the training of language interpreters in the health care sector.
• The exchange of information regarding health care interpretation.

HIN is a network of individuals and organizations dedicated to improving access to high-quality healthcare for patients with limited English proficiency. Over the years HIN activities have included: organizing forums and networking sessions, developing and disseminating position and policy papers; meeting with key stakeholders to promote the concept of language access for newcomers; leading national research projects and doing media relations. Currently the focus is on promoting the National Standard Guide for Interpreters (PDF, 294KB) launched by HIN in 2008 and advocating for government policy changes.

For more informaton visit the HIN website.