Why should medical interpreters avoid biases during interpretation?

Medical interpreters should avoid biases during interpretation primarily to maintain the trust of both patients and providers. Trust is a cornerstone of effective communication in healthcare settings, where the interpreter acts as a conduit between the patient and the medical team. If interpreters allow their personal biases to influence their interpretation, it can lead to miscommunication, misunderstandings, and ultimately impact the quality of care that patients receive. By ensuring an impartial and accurate representation of information, interpreters foster an environment where all parties feel heard, respected, and understood. This trust is vital for ensuring that patients are comfortable sharing their concerns and that providers can make informed decisions based on accurate information.