The Department Interpreter provides Spanish interpretation services between patients, families, and the healthcare team to ensure effective communication occurs between the health care provider and the patient and family in a respectful, and effective manner.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provides bilingual interpretation (English and Spanish) for limited English proficient patients to ensure accurate and effective communication occurs between patients, family members, and health care team members.
- Serves as primary and "float" interpreter within the assigned department.
- Trains employees in medical terminology and interprets for other bilingual employees throughout the organization.
- Ensures appropriate documentation of all interpreted encounters occurring in the patient's medical record.
- Reports any patient concerns or identified social issues discovered during interpretation.
- Educates health care providers about the patient's cultural, linguistic, and other needs.
- Maintains regular and predictable attendance.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Certification of completion in medical interpreting from a recognized organization or accredited institution
- Written and verbal proficiency in English and Spanish
- If no prior experience, completion of a medical interpreter training course consistent with national standards and documentation of up-to-date or recent (within two years) continuing education or updated coursework required.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Linguistics, Spanish, or Health-related concentration
- At least 1 year of experience interpreting in healthcare or clinical setting.