Cade Lucas
Being the only public hospital in one of the most multicultural communities in the country, translators are almost as important at Werribee Mercy hospital as doctors and nurses.
Part of the hospital’s multicultural services unit, which comprises a booking coordinator, two in-house translators and a team of casuals, translators help non-English speaking patients negotiate a healthcare system that uses a completely different language.
This can range from assisting non-English speaking patients in understanding medical information, treatment options and discharge instructions, through to accompanying them during consultations, procedures, and discussions with doctors.
Few understand the importance of the role more than one of Werribee Mercy’s own in-house translators, Hong Kong born, Man Ting Chong.
Having arrived in Australia with her family when she was 13, Man Ting witnessed the impact translators and interpreters can have when her brother, who has special needs, was receiving treatment.
“Having access to an interpreter is crucial to helping those who do not speak English as their first language navigate the complexities of the healthcare system which can often be difficult and overwhelming,” said Man Ting who was inspired by her brother’s experience with translators to become one herself.
She began working at Werribee Mercy four years ago while studying a Bachelor of Interpreting at RMIT University and said the experience had only underlined the importance of the role.
“ I have had the privilege of serving as a vital link between patients and clinicians. I have helped many patients understand medical information, treatment options and discharge instructions, which is essential to a positive experience with healthcare.”
Coming from Hong Kong, Man Ting is Werribee Mercy’s in-house interpreter for both Cantonese and Mandarin and assists an average of five patients per day.
She said working in such a large and diverse multicultural community made her job extra rewarding.
“Working in such a diverse community is part of what makes my role as an interpreter so fulfilling as I know I’m supporting the local community and ensuring they feel heard,” Man Ting said.
“Language has the ability to turn confusion into clarity which is why I love what I do.”
