When someone gets injured at work and doesn’t speak English fluently, having an interpreter isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. But despite the importance of their role, interpreters in the workers’ compensation system often fall short. Why? Let’s explore the key reasons behind these recurring issues.

Speed Over Skill: The First Available Interpreter Problem

Workers’ comp assignments often go to the first interpreter who responds, not necessarily the most qualified. This ‘fastest finger wins’ approach favors speed over language accuracy, medical terminology knowledge, or dialect expertise.

Few Regulations, Fewer Requirements

Unlike courtroom interpreting, workers’ comp interpreting lacks consistent state-level standards. In many areas, interpreters don’t need certifications, experience, or even a medical background. That leads to underqualified individuals filling roles where clear communication is critical.

Quantity Over Quality from Some Agencies

Many interpreting agencies take a high-volume, low-quality approach. They book assignments rapidly without vetting their interpreters for suitability, professionalism, or experience. This often results in no-shows, last-minute cancellations, and confusion at appointments.

Poor Pay Means Poor Retention

Low compensation drives skilled interpreters away from workers’ comp work. Without fair pay or prompt payment, seasoned professionals look elsewhere, leaving inexperienced interpreters to fill the gap.

No-Shows, Tardiness, and Last-Minute Chaos

Late or missing interpreters derail appointments, delay medical care, and frustrate everyone involved. For an injured worker, this can increase stress and slow recovery. It’s more than a scheduling inconvenience—it’s a systemic failure.

Language Isn’t Just Words—It’s Culture

Language has nuance. A good interpreter understands both the vocabulary and the culture. Without that cultural awareness, misinterpretation is inevitable, especially in sensitive medical or legal discussions.

What Needs to Change?

To improve interpreting in the workers’ comp system, we need to:
– Enforce interpreter qualification standards
– Prioritize matching by language *and* context
– Pay interpreters fairly and on time
– Ensure agencies are accountable
– Put the injured worker’s understanding and comfort first

At Archway Language Services, We’re Doing It Differently.

We believe every injured worker deserves to be heard—and truly understood. Our interpreters are trained, vetted, and committed to professional, compassionate service.

Need dependable workers’ comp interpreting services? Contact us today to learn how we can help: https://archwaysl.com/contact/