Interpreters

If you are getting treatment in a public health service, you can ask for an interpreter who speaks your language. The interpreter will translate everything you and the health care worker say to each other.

By using an interpreter you can:

• understand everything you are being told
• be sure everything you say is understood
• ask questions and get answers
• understand and consent to tests and treatment.

The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) provides interpreters over the phone, by video or in person. The TIS service is free for you when you visit doctors, specialists, and pharmacists.

The TIS telephone interpreting service is available 24 hours a day, every day of the year.

If you don’t speak English well, you can call TIS on 13 14 50 to help book an appointment or talk to your doctor or specialist. Always remember to ask the doctor’s receptionist to book a free interpreter for you.

Like all health care workers, interpreters must keep your information private and confidential.

For more information on TIS, visit TIS website.