Ophthalmology patient Lu Tianyan is one of the many patients who have benefitted from the virtual interpreter service

The RBWH Ophthalmology Eye Clinic has recently implemented a virtual interpreter service – an initiative which has significantly improved the quality of care to patients who don’t speak English or use AUSLAN. 

The team commenced the initiative in response to difficulties sourcing interpreters when COVID-19 vaccine mandates were introduced across Queensland Health facilities.  

The service has seen a significant reduction in cancellations of appointments due to inaccessibility to an interpreter service and has allowed for more flexible scheduling around appointment times for interpreters. 

Ophthalmology Senior Administration Officer Adam Stott said the team is proud to have implemented such a successful quality improvement project to help patients like Lu Tianyan, pictured with his interpreter.  

“Ophthalmology is the second highest user of virtual interpreter services at RBWH, behind maternity, with 562 virtual interpreter sessions booked between January and October 2022,” Mr Stott said.  

“Traditional phone interpreter services are not always compatible with the ophthalmology model of care, so it was vital for us to come up with a better way to communicate important health information with our patients.  

“The service has led to a range of administration efficiencies and has been well received by patients and clinical staff alike.” 

The ophthalmology virtual interpreter service was recently awarded a QuARRIES Award.