Bridging the Language Barrier with 4 Habits - Course Description and Evaluation

Sep 30, 2026

Upload by Cart

Research describes a course designed to improve collaboration between qualified interpreters and healthcare providers, addressing a gap in Norwegian healthcare education. The program strengthens communication through interpreter-supported clinical dialogue using the “Four Habits Model,” adapted for Norway. Developed with participatory design, it combines theory and simulation, role-play with non-Norwegian speaking patients, and direct feedback. Pilot results showed high perceived usefulness (96%), strong recommendation intentions (92%), and improved understanding and respect for interpreters’ professional role.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages1

Reading Time3 min

AccessFree to download

Aims

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Future Development Plans

2nd World Congress on Migration, Ethnicity, Race & Health Abstract Book vi97 Abstract citation ID: ckaf180.265 585 Bridging the language barrier with 4 habits Ashley Ellen Lunde1 and Hege Linnestad1 1Akershus University Hospital, Nordbyhagen, Norway PTH 5: Exclusion and Discrimination, B307 (FCSH), September 4, 2025, 15:15-16:09 Aims: Research shows there is potential for better collaboration between qualified interpreters and healthcare providers – a topic often lacking in Norwegian healthcare education programs. Both groups call for more knowledge and hands-on training. “Bridging the language barrier with 4 habits” is a course aimed at strengthening healthcare providers’ ability to communicate effectively through a qualified interpreter. It is the first of its kind in Norway, built around elements of the “Four Habits Model,” originally developed by Kaiser Permanente (United States) and adapted toa Norwegian context by P. Gulbrandsen and A. Finset. Methods: This course was developed using participatory design in collaboration with “Four Habits” instructors and qualified interpreters. It includes theory and simulation training. The theoretical portion highlights the importance of qualified interpreter use, relevant research, laws and practical tips. Healthcare providers then participate in or observe role-play conversations using real-life clinical scenarios with simulated non-Norwegian speaking patients, with and without a qualified interpreter. Healthcare providers then receive direct feedback from instructors, interpreters, and their colleagues. 16 “Four Habits” instructors participated in a pilot in 2022, followed by a group-feedback evaluation session. Results: All instructors in the pilot agreed that the course should be systematically implemented with small adjustments. The course is now adjusted, implemented and run twice a year. 42 healthcare providers (interdisciplinary) have taken the course thus far. A written evaluation from 25 participants showed that 96%(24/ 25) perceived the course content as useful and relevant. 92% would recommend the course to colleagues. Healthcare providers also gained a better understanding of interpreters’ role and their respect for the profession increased. Conclusions: Results indicate that the course can be an effective tool in educating healthcare providers on good clinical communication through an interpreter. We plan to further develop the course and expand its reach locally and nationally.

FAQs

What is the main purpose of the course?

The course is aimed at strengthening healthcare providers’ ability to communicate effectively through a qualified interpreter, improving collaboration between both groups.

How was the course developed and what training does it include?

It was developed using participatory design with “Four Habits” instructors and qualified interpreters, and it includes theory plus simulation training with role-play conversations and direct feedback.

What outcomes were reported from the pilot and evaluations?

Pilot instructors agreed the course should be implemented systematically with small adjustments. An evaluation from 25 participants found 96% perceived the content as useful and relevant, and 92% would recommend it to colleagues.

Sep 30, 2026

Upload by Cart