Partners & Funders
The Ottawa Language Access program is led by the Ottawa Newcomer Health Centre and South-East Ottawa Community Health Centre in partnership with various organizations. The Ottawa Language Access Program provides affordable interpretation services in Ottawa through its social enterprise. Ontario Health East funds the program.
Goals and Collaboration Approach
Established in 2015, the Ottawa Language Access program aims to provide language interpretation and translation services to Ottawa, Cornwall, and Windsor clients facing the most barriers.
Activities
The Ottawa Language Access program offers interpretation in 28 languages through 62 contractors. It also provides college-level training and testing for new interpreters. Additionally, the program trains client organizations and providers on working effectively with interpreters. Many interpreters have healthcare backgrounds and are newcomers themselves. Feedback from users shows the Ottawa Language Access program helps ensure equitable care and reduces miscommunication.
Link to the Ottawa Immigration Strategy
The Ottawa Language Access program aligns with the Ottawa Immigration Strategy’s priorities 2 and 4 of the Language sector table. Priority 2 focuses on improving access to language training for newcomers, while priority 4 emphasizes creating special language programs for at-risk populations. The program bridges language gaps and supports individuals facing barriers.
Timelines and Milestones
With the rising number of refugees and newcomers, there is a growing need for language services. The Ottawa Newcomer Health Clinic plans to expand the Ottawa Language Access program’s capacity. This will be done by adding more space and securing sustainable funding. This will help meet the needs of newcomers with complex health issues and limited language skills. The program faces challenges, such as meeting the annual target of $70,000 for subsidized services and retaining interpreters due to low pay and irregular hours. To address these issues, the Ottawa Language Access program provides mental health support and recognizes the work of interpreters.
Impact Areas and Client Outcomes
The Ottawa Language Access program bridges the language gap in healthcare, focusing on care for the elderly, mental health, chronic disease management, and immigrant health. With subsidized services funded by Ontario Health East, the program ensures access to trained interpreters, promoting equitable care. From 2020-21 to 2022-23, the program grew from 1,663 to 3,890 interpretation assignments and from 2,517 to 5,865 interpretation hours. The Ottawa Language Access program is key in improving healthcare access in Ottawa.
Conclusion
The Ottawa Language Access Program has significantly improved the way in which language barriers in healthcare are overcome. Through excellent service, collaboration, and support for both providers and clients, the program is a crucial part of Ottawa’s healthcare system. With more funding and capacity, the program will continue to ensure equitable healthcare for all, regardless of language.
