INTRODUCTION:
Globally, health systems are increasingly challenged to deliver equitable care to diverse populations. Migrants often encounter barriers such as language discordance, limited knowledge, and health services that are not fully adapted to unique cultural norms. Intercultural mediation to bridge linguistic and cultural gaps has proven effective internationally in improving communication, patient experience, and access to care. In Latin America, where migration flows have intensified in recent years, evidence on intercultural mediation remains scarce. This study examines the experiences of intercultural facilitators working with migrant populations in Chile to inform broader global discussions on intercultural mediation in healthcare settings.

METHODS:
Within the FONIS SA25I0155 project (ANID/Chilean government), an open call invited intercultural facilitators working in Chile’s health system to voluntarily submit narrative accounts of their experiences supporting migrant patients. A total of 25 narratives were collected and published following the original writing style. For this qualitative study, narratives were re analyzed using thematic analysis to identify core themes related to facilitators’ contributions, challenges, and opportunities for strengthening their role.

RESULTS:
Facilitators described a broad spectrum of intercultural mediation practices, highlighting the need to translate not only language but also cultural meanings, expectations, and health seeking practices. Intercultural competencies were portrayed as skills refined through on the job experience. Facilitators reported supporting the implementation of clinical recommendations in complex social contexts, improving health teams’ understanding of migrant needs, and linking patients to formal and informal support networks. Persistent challenges included high workload, emotional strain, limited and unstandardized training, and difficulties achieving full collaboration with clinical teams.

CONCLUSIONS:
Intercultural mediation remains a significant contribution to delivering responsive, equitable care for migrant populations; a challenge shared across global health systems experiencing increasing diversity. Health authorities worldwide should formally recognize, strengthen, and sustain intercultural mediation as a core component of inclusive public health practice.