Right to Interpreter Service
- According to Act on Patient's Rights, a patient that does not speak Icelandic has the right to get information about his health, intended treatment and other possible outcomes interpreted. If you need an interpreter you must notify the health care personnel when you make an appointment at a health clinic or hospital. It is the institution concerned that decides whether it pays for the interpreter service or not.
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Those who do not speak Icelandic, or have not become proficient in Icelandic have the legal right to a free interpreter in court cases.
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In many cases an interpreter is called upon to interpret communication between individuals and the municipal social services, municipalities, the police and organizations.
- Interpreters are also frequently called upon during parent and teacher interviews in schools and the institution concerned books the interpreter and defrays for the service. The same applies when an individual needs to communicate with the municipal social service.
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Since interpreter services are not always free it is advisable to check first with the institution or business regarding its policy on interpreting expenses.
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If a person wishes to have an interpreter, it is important to state the language needed, as it is not always enough to list nationality only.
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In most cases the individual has the right to reject the service of an interpreter.
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The interpreter is bound by confidentiality obligations while interpreting.
