(Chand, 2012). Limited access to interpreters can be challenging because interpreters may not be on site in most health centers (Australian Human Rights Commission [AHRC], 2010). Most new refugees to Australia come from non-English speaking countries, which has a negative impact on their health when they arrive in Australia (Sheikh-Mohammed, Raina MacIntyre, J Wood, Leask, & Isaacs, 2006). On the other hand, these refugees may also feel frustrated when explaining their health problems to the interpreter in the clinic because the interpreter may not explain to the doctor as they would like (Sheikh-Mohammed et al. 2006). However, some health services do not have this, leading refugee patients to try to explain their problems to their doctor (AHRC, 2010). The use of jargon in health services has proven very difficult to understand (Australian Human Rights Commission, 2010). According to (AHRC, 2010), when refugees visit doctors they are speaking to, the use of slang words can seem threatening, which makes them feel discouraged from asking questions or seeking clarity. This leads to a lack of understanding and communication difficulties between patient and doctor (AHRC, 2010). Due to this language barrier, health workers are unable to understand the needs of refugees (AHRC, 2010). This can lead to a “misdiagnosis” and it can be difficult for the doctor to monitor the health of patients (the human medicine department).
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