Being a Bridge? Intercultural Mediation in Slovenian Healthcare

Abstract

The article explores the profession of the intercultural mediator (IM) in healthcare through the conceptual and terminological dilemmas that mark contemporary debate around this profession. Based on qualitative research with IMs in Slovenia, the article analyses the power relations that arise in the triadic situation (healthcare worker, patient, IM). In this context, we explore whether the bridge metaphor, which seems a common denominator in describing the role of IM, is appropriate for this profession. In order to explore this, we analyse the role of IM in relation to two "shores" that they are supposed to connect: the side of the patient and the side of healthcare workers. Paying attention to the power relations, we show how IM's loyalties to these two sides determine their role.