AHEC Connecticut
HEALTH INFORMATION & COMMUNICATIONS - Medical Interpreter
To be a successful Medical Interpreter you should...
- Have excellent oral command of English and a second language.
- Have experience as an Interpreter in a multi-specialty health care environment.
- Be able to demonstrate professionalism in a demanding, high stress and fast-paced environment.
- Be able to demonstrate understanding of cultural issues related to health care.
- Be sensitive and knowledgeable of the distinction between neutral interpreting and patient advocacy.
- Be able to pass an oral and written competency exam.
- Have basic computer skills required, i.e., Microsoft Office.
What will my job be like?
Trained Medical Interpreters render a message spoken in one language into a second language, and abide by a code of professional ethics. Interpreters are skilled in the process of understanding and analyzing a spoken message accurately and objectively in another language, taking the cultural and social context into account. Interpreter’s works in varieties of settings to assist non-English speaking patients. For example, doctor’s offices, clinics, hospitals, home health visits, mental health clinics, and social service settings. Typically, the setting is an interview between a healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, lab technician) and a patient (or the patient and one or more family members).
Where could I work?
- Hospitals
- Community Health Centers
- Social Service Organizations
- Federal, State, and Local Health Departments
- Telephonic Language Interpreter Services
- Interpreter Service Organizations
- Independent Interpreters ( Freelance)
What is the average annual salary?
$35,000
What is the future of this career?
Employment for trained Medical Interpreters is an increasingly growing throughout the nation. The trend nationally is to require certified interpreters for clinical and medical settings. It is anticipated that the State of Connecticut will also require training and/or certification.
What type of education and/or training do I need?
High-School Diploma or equivalent.
Successful completion of language proficiency screening and a 50-hour training which includes class time, homework and testing time. Followed with a one-month on-site observation and feedback.
Where can I get the education and/or training?
Connecticut AHEC Medical Interpreter Program. For a training location near you and further information visit www.easternctahec.org The course follows the National Council of Healthcare Interpreting professional standards of practice.
Do I need a license or certification for this career?
Licensure is not required or available in the State of Connecticut. There are national efforts to develop and implement a national certification.
Where can I get more information?
Connecticut AHEC Medical Interpreter Program
www.easternctahec.org
National Council