About This Role
This role as an Interpreter acts as a liaison between English-speaking staff and non-English-speaking patients or caregivers, providing accurate interpretation of critical information when requested. The interpreter ensures clear communication within the patient's care team.
Responsibilities
- Precisely and accurately interpret critical medical information to and from the patient and a member of their care team, using appropriate medical terminology
- Assist patients in reading forms and educational information if requested
- Establish and maintain quality service and positive interaction with all patients, visitors, and other staff, including health care providers and clinical employees
- Assist with patient follow-up as necessary, including but not limited to contacting patients with appointment reminders
- Adjust communications to fit the needs and level of understanding of the receiver
- Maintain strict patient confidentiality in accordance with policies and standards
- Provide occasional services outside of normal working hours on an as-needed basis
- Perform other job-related duties as assigned
Requirements
- Oral proficiency and fluency in English and a target language
- Adhere to the professional responsibility and ethics for an interpreter in healthcare
- Ability to professionally manage an interpretation encounter
- Cultural awareness and responsiveness
- Knowledge of cultural and perceptual factors that may affect patient treatment and communication
- Knowledge of medical terminology and procedures
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to precisely and accurately decipher critical medical information to and from English to the patient's native language using accurate medical and colloquial terminology appropriate for the encounter
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain positive relationships and provide excellent customer service
- Excellent communication and listening skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of records and information
- Ability to interact and communicate with people in person, over the telephone, or via video
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and/or in stressful situations and apply sound judgment and patient de-escalation techniques when needed
- Ability to work outside of normal working hours as needed
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Demonstrated oral proficiency and fluency in English and a target language through a verified Medical Interpretation & Code of Ethics Assessment or successful completion of medical interpreting training with the ability to apply for an Interpretation Certification through Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters or the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters
