BS ISO 21998:2020 - Interpreting Services in Healthcare

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, effective communication is paramount. The BS ISO 21998:2020 standard is a comprehensive guide that sets forth the requirements and recommendations for interpreting services within the healthcare sector. Released on December 17, 2020, this standard is an essential resource for healthcare providers, interpreters, and organizations aiming to enhance communication and ensure quality care for patients across diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Overview of BS ISO 21998:2020

The BS ISO 21998:2020 standard, titled "Interpreting services. Healthcare interpreting. Requirements and recommendations," is a meticulously crafted document that spans 28 pages. It provides a structured framework for delivering interpreting services in healthcare settings, ensuring that communication barriers do not impede the delivery of high-quality care. The standard is identified by the ISBN 978 0 580 97169 3 and is recognized as a pivotal resource in the field of healthcare interpreting.

Key Features and Benefits

• Comprehensive Guidelines: The standard offers detailed guidelines that cover various aspects of healthcare interpreting, from the qualifications and competencies of interpreters to the ethical considerations and best practices in the field.
• Quality Assurance: By adhering to the requirements and recommendations outlined in this standard, healthcare providers can ensure that their interpreting services meet high-quality standards, thereby improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.
• Enhanced Communication: Effective communication is crucial in healthcare settings, where misunderstandings can have serious consequences. This standard helps bridge language gaps, ensuring that patients receive accurate information and care.
• Global Applicability: As an ISO standard, BS ISO 21998:2020 is recognized internationally, making it a valuable resource for healthcare organizations around the world seeking to improve their interpreting services.

Who Should Use This Standard?

The BS ISO 21998:2020 standard is designed for a wide range of stakeholders in the healthcare industry, including:

• Healthcare Providers: Hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities can use this standard to develop and implement effective interpreting services, ensuring that all patients receive the care they need, regardless of language barriers.
• Interpreters: Professional interpreters working in healthcare settings can benefit from the guidelines and recommendations provided in this standard, enhancing their skills and ensuring they meet industry standards.
• Healthcare Administrators: Administrators and managers can use this standard to assess and improve their organization's interpreting services, ensuring compliance with international best practices.
• Policy Makers: Government agencies and organizations involved in healthcare policy can use this standard to develop regulations and policies that promote effective communication in healthcare.

Structure and Content

The BS ISO 21998:2020 standard is structured to provide clear and actionable guidance. It includes sections on:

• Interpreter Qualifications: Outlining the necessary skills, training, and qualifications required for interpreters in healthcare settings.
• Ethical Considerations: Addressing the ethical responsibilities of interpreters, including confidentiality, impartiality, and professionalism.
• Service Delivery: Providing recommendations for the effective delivery of interpreting services, including the use of technology and remote interpreting solutions.
• Quality Management: Offering guidance on quality assurance processes to ensure that interpreting services meet the highest standards.

Why Choose BS ISO 21998:2020?

Choosing the BS ISO 21998:2020 standard means committing to excellence in healthcare communication. By implementing the guidelines and recommendations outlined in this standard, healthcare organizations can:

• Improve Patient Safety: Ensure that patients understand their diagnosis, treatment options, and care instructions, reducing the risk of errors and adverse outcomes.
• Enhance Patient Experience: Provide a more inclusive and supportive environment for patients who speak different languages, improving their overall experience and satisfaction.
• Meet Regulatory Requirements: Align with international standards and regulations, demonstrating a commitment to quality and compliance.
• Foster Cultural Competence: Promote cultural awareness and sensitivity within healthcare organizations, leading to better patient-provider relationships and outcomes.

Conclusion

The BS ISO 21998:2020 standard is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in healthcare interpreting. Its comprehensive guidelines and recommendations provide a solid foundation for delivering high-quality interpreting services, ensuring that language barriers do not hinder the delivery of exceptional care. By adopting this standard, healthcare organizations can enhance communication, improve patient outcomes, and demonstrate their commitment to excellence in healthcare.

BS ISO 21998:2020

This standard BS ISO 21998:2020 Interpreting services. Healthcare interpreting. Requirements and recommendations is classified in these ICS categories:

• 11.020.99 Other standards related to health care in general
• 01.020 Terminology (principles and coordination)

This document specifies requirements and recommendations for healthcare interpreting services in spoken and signed communication. It is applicable to all situations requiring healthcare interpreting, where the parties involved need to communicate using spoken or signed language, to treat a health-related issue. It is intended for interpreting service providers and healthcare interpreters.