Needs assessment of interpretation services in Boise, Idaho: Agency & interpreter perspectives- An exploratory study

As the number of refugees in the United States continues to rise, the need for qualified interpreters has become more crucial. Refugees are dependent on language assistance in navigating a complex infrastructure including health care, the judicial system, education, public safety and housing services. The federal government has mandated that recipients of federal funds must provide interpretation services to those with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). In this exploratory study, researchers surveyed interpreters and representatives of the agencies that use them in Boise, Idaho to identify opportunities to enhance the interpretation services available to persons with LEP. The results of this needs assessment were consistent with the limited national research found. While both interpreters and agencies were primarily satisfied with the services, there were gaps between what the agencies need and what is available. A primary opportunity identified by the respondents included increased communication and collaboration among agencies and interpreters. These efforts could include the development of on-going training opportunities, development of consistent performance standards and employment practices, enhanced feedback mechanisms, and clarification of roles and responsibilities. Several threats to the provision of high quality interpretation services in Boise were also identified. These included concerns regarding funding and reimbursement practices, the availability of qualified interpreters, and a lack of impetus to make the interpretation services a high priority for organizations and/or interpreters due to relatively low demand.