When interpreting is not enough: Comparing patient navigators with interpreters

Wednesday, 5 March 2025
6.00pm - 8.00pm
AUT City Campus, WG Building, room 801 (level 8)
55 Wellesley Street East, Auckland Central, 1010

10 NAATI recertification points

Interpreting is a crucial bridge in healthcare communication, but in some situations, it may not be enough to fully support patients. As healthcare systems grow increasingly complex, many patients—especially those with limited English proficiency LEP (limited English proficiency)—struggle to navigate care effectively. While interpreters ensure linguistic access, patient navigators provide next-level support, guiding patients through the healthcare system, addressing cultural barriers, and ensuring continuity of care.

This free professional development event will explore the key differences and intersections between interpreters and patient navigators, drawing from the groundbreaking Seattle Children’s Hospital Patient Navigation Program which empowered certified interpreters to take on a more proactive role in supporting at-risk families. This Program significantly improved healthcare outcomes, reduced hospital costs, and strengthened provider-patient confidence.

This session will be delivered by two leading experts in healthcare interpreting and language access:
Cindy Roat – A globally recognised consultant on language access in healthcare, trainer, author, and advocate for equitable healthcare communication. Cindy is based in the USA and is a visiting scholar currently in NZ for a limited time.
Ineke Crezee ONZM – Distinguished linguist and professor at Auckland University of Technology, specialised in healthcare interpreting and interpreter education.

An essential session for interpreters, healthcare professionals, and language access advocates—gain valuable insights into when and why patient navigation may be a better choice and how both roles can work together to enhance patient care and equity in healthcare settings.

Registrations close at 11.59 pm on Monday, 3 March 2025