ABSTRACT
The complexity multiplies in the health care setting when interpreters are needed to bridge the cultural communities of the provider and the patient, not only by interpreting the languages spoken, but also in seeking answers to questions that providers and patients raise at they communicate with one another. Research investigating this complex context of communication with interpreters indicates that the difficulties in interpreted conversations lie in the construction of reciprocal understanding, the accurate transformation of semantic and pragmatic content, and the role of the interpreter as linguistic facilitator A process whereby people communicate in ways that indicate that they understand each other's perspectives; individuals work together to become closer and agree more about the topic under discussion. Negotiating understanding within and among multicultural health and illness communities necessitates willingness on the part of providers and patients to communicate honestly to build a supportive, trusting relationship.
