Free Interpreting Service for private medical practitioners

Private medical practitioners providing services eligible for Medicare rebates can access interpreters free of charge, as can reception staff and practice nurse who need to arrange appointments and provide results of medical tests.

Why should medical practitioners and practice staff use interpreters?

Medical practitioners use credentialed interpreters to communicate complex or technical information to patients with limited or no English language proficiency. This can help to ensure accuracy of communication, reduce confusion, save time, and protect practitioners from professional risk.

It is particularly important when:

  • seeking informed consent
  • dealing with patients in a crisis
  • dealing with complexity
  • assessing patient competence

Medical practitioners and staff can use the Free Interpreting Service to access interpreting services delivered by TIS National, including:

  • Immediate phone interpreting
  • Pre-booked phone interpreting
  • Pre-booked on-site interpreting
  • Telehealth video interpreting service

For more information

Information and resources around TIS National can be found available at www.tisnational.gov.au or you can contact TIS National on 1300 575 847.

If you would like more information or support, you can contact the Practice Support Team on PH: 1300 986 991 | practicesupport@cesphn.com.au

Download the PDF version of the Free Interpreting Service – private medical practitioners information sheet