Who is entitled to an interpreter?
If you do not understand what is being said and cannot express what you need, you have the right to an interpreter in the language you prefer.
You may be entitled to an interpreter even if you speak Norwegian on a daily basis.
Who will book an interpreter?
The healthcare services in Norway are responsible for booking a qualified interpreter.
It can sometimes be difficult to know whether you need an interpreter. It is mainly the healthcare professionals who must assess whether you need an interpreter. You can also let them know if you think you will need one, for example when you book an appointment. You can also call the health service and ask them to arrange an interpreter in your language.
A screen or phone interpreter can sometimes be a good alternative to having an interpreter present in the room.
Public bodies have a duty to use qualified interpreters according to the Interpreting Act.
Who can act as an interpreter?
Interpreters must have a qualification in interpreting.
Children must not be used as interpreters. Other relatives or persons without any interpreting qualifications should also not be used in place of a qualified interpreter.
What do you have to be aware of when using an interpreter?
It is important that you tell the healthcare service exactly which language you prefer.
Once an interpreter has been booked for an appointment, it is important that you arrive precisely. If you are unable to attend a scheduled appointment, you should cancel it at least 24 hours in advance. If you do not, you will still have to pay for the consultation. It is particularly important to keep this in mind when an interpreter has been booked.
What is an interpreter and what are the interpreter's duties
The interpreter has a duty of confidentiality and will not disclose to anyone else what is said during an interpreted conversation.
The interpreter must only interpret what is said and must not give advice or add their own opinions. The interpreter must be neutral and not take sides with anyone.
As a patient, you will relate to your healthcare professional. All questions should therefore be aimed at the healthcare professional, and not at the interpreter.
Who pays for the interpreter?
It is free for patients of healthcare services to have an interpreter, but if you go to the dentist and have to pay for your dental treatment, you will also have to pay for an interpreter if you need one.
Complaints
If you do not get an interpreter for an appointment with the healthcare service, even if you think you need one, you can complain to the institution that is treating you. You can also complain to the County Governor, the Health and Social Services Ombudsmen ("Pasient- og brukerombudet"), or The Equality and Anti-Discrimination Ombud.
If you are not satisfied with the quality of the interpreting or other similar circumstances, you can complain to the institution that is treating you.