Medical terminology comes on top. Medical interpretation requires a strong understanding of medical terminology in both the source and target languages. It is important to know the meaning of medical terms and jargon in order to accurately convey information. If an interpreter doesn’t understand a word, he or she should ask for a simpler explanation, so that the conversation between the doctor and the patient is flawless.

In addition, it’s best to always use clear and concise language when interpreting medical information. Using straightforward, easy to understand language will help ensure that the patient understands the information being provided. Do your best to avoid medical jargon or technical terms that the patient may not be familiar with. But if you do end up having to use it, be sure you understand what it means so you can explain it if necessary.

That being said, be sure to be in the know-how of how the medical field works. Whether it’s of internal medicine, neurology, radiology, pediatrics, cardiology, outpatient surgery, gastroenterology, urology, intensive care, orthopedics, physical therapy, community health, emergency, gynecology and more, an interpreter should be prepared and understand each specialty. This can help you as an interpreter to better understand the medical information being provided and to accurately convey it to the patient.

There are a lot of cultures out there that deal with medical visits differently. You may have  mastered the source and target languages in the medical field, but you also need to be culturally sensitive and can bridge the gap between the two cultures you are interpreting in. Something important beyond what is being said, the interpreter should serve as an advocate to bring that underlining meaning out to all parties involved. This can help the doctor and the patient understand each other better. Medical interpretation is unique in this sense. To communicate fully in order to provide and receive the best treatment.

As an interpreter, you should always keep whatever occurs in the appointment confidential. Medical interpreters should always respect the confidentiality of the patient and not share any personal or medical information without the patient’s consent or unless required by law. A medical interpreter should always remain impartial and avoid giving personal opinions or advice to the patient regarding make their own decisions and conclusions.

Medical interpretation is a valuable service to the community. It’s a very rewarding experience for us at Monterey Language Services. We have a great sense of helping others by providing medical interpretation to LEP (Limited English Proficiency) patients. Our goal is to put their mind at ease that their words are being understood, and they are understanding the words being said to them as well. This is what we call the essence of medical interpretation.

Requirements:

1. Have completed 100 hours of CCHI approved interpreter training
2. Experienced with in-person medical interpretation
3. Have reliable transportation to and from Richmond or Antioch
4. Enjoy working with young children and particularly mothers
5. Familiar with OBGYN or prenatal services
6. Female interpreters preferred; male interpreters welcomed as well
7. Entry-level is welcome
8. Culturally competent
9. Professional in conduct and appearance
10. Authorized to work in the US

What to Expect:

1. We need someone who is living or willing to relocate to the Richmond/Antioch areas in California for in-person interpretation
2. This will be a 2-year contract
3. Part Time (15 hrs or more per week)
4. Be available to stay on-site for blocks of time to be designated every week
5. Able to work on a team and work well with others
6. May need to shadow physicians and nurses and provide interpretation when necessary
7. Occasionally interpret remotely (via phone or video)
8. Willing to undergo a background check and health screening/immunization
9. Willing to undergo some training to ensure that all guidelines will be followed
10. Willing to follow hospital immunization and safety procedures

If you are interested in joining us, as a first step, please go on our website and in particular answer the questions about your medical interpreting experience, so we can follow up with you. Please also feel welcome to refer entry-level colleagues by sharing this email. Thank you and we look forward to hearing from you soon!

https://www.montereylanguages.com/send-a-resume.html