Medical Interpreter in Lisbon

When it comes to your health, understanding and being understood isn’t optional. A missed detail in a diagnosis, a misunderstood medication instruction, or an inability to describe your symptoms properly can have real consequences.

Many doctors in Lisbon speak some English, but not all of them do, and even those who do may not be comfortable discussing complex medical issues in English. If you’re seeing a specialist, going through a procedure, or dealing with a serious health matter, a medical interpreter ensures nothing falls through the gaps.

I’m listed on the GOV.UK directory of translators and interpreters for British nationals in Portugal, specifically approved for medical assistance interpretation.

When you need a medical interpreter

GP and centro de saúde appointments. If you’ve registered with the Portuguese national health service (SNS) and your assigned GP speaks limited English, having an interpreter at your appointments means you can describe your symptoms accurately and understand the doctor’s assessment and recommendations.

Specialist consultations. Cardiology, oncology, neurology, orthopaedics, dermatology, gynaecology, paediatrics: specialist appointments involve detailed medical discussions where precise language matters. I interpret so you and the specialist communicate clearly.

Hospital visits and admissions. If you’re admitted to a Portuguese hospital, whether through an emergency or a planned procedure, the medical team needs to understand your history, allergies, medications, and symptoms. I can attend to interpret during consultations and help you understand your care plan.

Pre-operative and post-operative consultations. Before surgery, your surgeon will explain the procedure, risks, and recovery plan. After surgery, the care team will give you discharge instructions, medication schedules, and follow-up plans. Understanding all of this correctly is essential.

Mental health appointments. Therapy, counselling, and psychiatric consultations rely entirely on communication. If you’re more comfortable expressing yourself in English, an interpreter ensures the therapist receives your words accurately.

Pregnancy and maternity care. From prenatal appointments to delivery room communication to postnatal check-ups, having an interpreter during your pregnancy journey in Portugal means you’re fully informed at every stage. As someone who had her own son in Portugal, I understand the maternity care system here.

Dental appointments. Complex dental procedures, treatment plans, and informed consent discussions can be difficult to navigate in a foreign language. I interpret so you understand the treatment being proposed and its implications.

Medical assessments and reports. If you need a medical assessment for insurance, disability, or legal purposes, having an interpreter ensures your condition is described accurately and you understand the assessment outcome.

What I do

I attend your medical appointment and interpret between you and the healthcare provider in real time. I translate your description of symptoms into Portuguese, the doctor’s questions into English, and the diagnosis, treatment plan, and medication instructions back into English.

I interpret accurately and without editing. The doctor needs to hear exactly what you’re experiencing, and you need to understand exactly what they’re recommending.

If you have medical records from your previous healthcare provider that need translating in advance, I handle that too. Giving your Portuguese doctor a translated summary of your medical history before the appointment makes the consultation more productive.

All medical information is treated with strict confidentiality.

What it costs

Medical interpretation starts from €120 per appointment. The price depends on the expected length and complexity. A routine GP visit is shorter and simpler than a specialist consultation or a hospital admission.

If you also need medical records translated in advance, those are priced separately from €60 per document.

See the full pricing page for details.

Why work with me

GOV.UK approved for medical interpretation. I’m specifically listed for medical assistance interpretation on the British government’s directory of translators and interpreters in Portugal.

I’ve navigated the Portuguese healthcare system. I had my son in the Portuguese maternity system. I’ve been through SNS appointments, hospital visits, and specialist referrals myself. I understand how the system works and can help you navigate it.

Confidentiality is absolute. Medical information is deeply personal. I treat every appointment with the same confidentiality standards I apply in my compliance work.

Frequently asked questions

Do Portuguese doctors speak English? Some do, particularly in private clinics in Lisbon. However, many SNS doctors, specialists, and hospital staff may not speak English fluently, or may not be comfortable discussing complex medical matters in English. Don’t assume your doctor speaks English until you’ve confirmed it.

Can I bring a friend or family member to interpret instead? You can, but medical terminology is specialised. A friend may not know the Portuguese word for a specific condition or medication, and a misinterpretation in a medical setting can have real consequences. A professional interpreter ensures accuracy.

Do you interpret at emergency room visits? I can, subject to availability. Emergency situations are unpredictable, so contact me as soon as possible and I’ll do my best to attend. For planned visits and consultations, book in advance.

Can you interpret for mental health appointments? Yes. I understand the sensitivity of mental health consultations and interpret with discretion and care.

Do you also translate medical records? Yes. I offer medical records translation as a separate service. Having your records translated before an appointment gives your Portuguese doctor the full picture.

Get in touch

Tell me about your appointment: the type of consultation, the date, and any specific concerns. I’ll let you know how I can help.

Message Duda on WhatsApp →

Prefer email? eduardanejaimc@gmail.com

Or use the contact form → and I’ll get back to you within a few hours.