HFHT Patient Interpretation and Translation Services

Removing Language Barriers

The Remote Interpretation Ontario (RIO) service, provided through Access Alliance, offers 24/7 on-demand access to qualified interpreters that are trained in medical terminology, in more than 230 languages. This service enables Hamilton Family Health Team practices to communicate effectively with patients and clients who have limited English proficiency.

To access an interpreter, call 1-888-278-8007 or email languages@accessalliance.ca. When contacting the intake officer, please advise that you are calling from a Hamilton Family Health Team (HFHT) practice and provide the following information:

  • Your HFHT Client ID (listed below)
  • The name of your practice
  • Your first and last name

The intake officer will ask a few brief questions about your interpretation needs and will promptly connect you with a qualified interpreter.

Please Note:

  • No advance approval is required to access this service.
  • There is currently no cost to HFHT practices for using this service.

There are 2 specific ID codes to choose from as a reference. 

Client ID

287493 – Hamilton Family Health Team – Physicians

252403 – Hamilton Family Health Team – Syrian language requests only