“Bioethics in Medical Interpretation” explores the ethical principles that guide healthcare decision-making and the essential role medical interpreters play in protecting patients’ rights, dignity, safety, autonomy, and access to equitable care. Starting with the origins and evolutions of Bioethics and examining its growing importance in medicine. Reviewing the foundational principles of Bioethics—Autonomy, Beneficence, Non-Maleficence, and Justice— and their relevance to healthcare practice. We will also explore the intersection between bioethical principles and the Medical Interpreter Code of Ethics, emphasizing confidentiality, accuracy, impartiality, professional boundaries, respect for patient autonomy, and the interpreter’s responsibility to facilitate effective communication without altering the message. Real-life examples will demonstrate ethical dilemmas during medical encounters and how interpreters can apply ethical principles and best practices to respond appropriately. Finally, we will briefly explore Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its emerging impact on bioethics and medical interpretation, including concerns related to privacy, bias, accuracy, informed consent, human oversight, and equitable access to healthcare. By connecting bioethical principles with the responsibilities of medical interpreters, this presentation aims to strengthen ethical awareness and support high-quality, patient-centered communication.
CEAP/CCHI: All interpreters earn 1 accredited hourIMIA/NBCMI: All interpreters earn 0.1 CEUs