Often, it is expected that medical interpreters will help a patient complete medical questionnaires and patient history. Some interpreters have no problem doing such tasks; others view it as beyond the scope of their practice. Whether or not an interpreter helps a patient to fill out medical documents in history depends more on company policy for the interpreter, and if he is competent to do so.
It is altogether unethical for an interpreter practice a certain task for which he is ill-equipped. Many interpreters feel uneasy interpreting technical information included in a form. They feel the prudent course of action would be for the clinic to invest in translation services, thereby allowing the patient to complete the questionnaire independently. Indeed, the issue does not necessarily involve the mode of sight translation. The problem arises when the patient asks questions that the interpreter is unqualified to answer. If the patient spoke English, the interpreter would not be there to answer questions.
In this case, it might be appropriate for an interpreter to assist the patient in filling out the document; however, leave uncertain questions blank. This allows the patient to seek clarification of certain questions from a healthcare professional. Further, the healthcare interpreter would then render the oral answers provided by patient.
If the company or organization that hires the interpreter expects the language professional to assist patients in finishing forms, they shoulder the responsibility of properly training interpreters to perform that task proficiently. Otherwise, it would be completely appropriate to decline assisting a patient with documents. It may be best for all parties involved to have the healthcare provider obtain the information. Moreover, the interpreter continues to serve in the capacity for which his services were retained.
When I took the test to become a CCHI certified healthcare interpreter, I had to show proficiency in consecutive interpreting (conveying the massage back and forth), simultaneous interpreting (conveying the message while the speaker is still speaking) and site translation (Reading a document out loud as if it were the language of the patient). Most certified interpreters should feel comfortable in performing site translation with forms.
So, to answer our title question, it depends. It would be perfectly fine if the interpreter is qualified to do so, and the job is within his scope. One caveat: legal forms (e.g., consent for treatment) cannot not be sight translated. The medical practice will need to invest in translation of those legal items.
