Medical interpreters are crucial in multilingual countries like the US, where they act as intermediaries between doctors and patients who speak different languages. Fluency in at least two languages is required, along with cultural knowledge and medical terminology skills. While certification is not yet required, it may become so in the future.
A medical interpreter is an essential person in countries where multiple languages are commonly spoken. In places like the US, for example, especially in large cities, there can be numerous requests for interpreters to act as intermediaries between doctors and patients who do not speak the same language. There may be different paths to becoming a medical interpreter and fulfilling this role. Some of them involve formal education, while others simply involve bilingual skills.
The number one requirement for becoming a medical interpreter is fluency in two languages. In the US, the greatest demand may be for people who speak both Spanish and English, but many other languages are also needed. Interpreters can speak several, but tend to be fluent in at least two. Fluency is usually not achieved with one or two courses in a language. It may require at least four years of high school study, or even more study at the college level. Alternatively, some people may be native speakers.
Generally, hospitals also require those wishing to become medical interpreters to possess a high school diploma. However, many hospitals may have other requirements for interpreter jobs. Hospitals and other medical facilities may ask people to take medical terminology courses in multiple languages, train as a medical assistant, or complete a medical interpretation program. There are several universities and private companies that offer certificate programs in medical interpreting, and these can last a semester or more, or they can be completed with intensive study for one or more weeks. They normally don’t teach language except medical terminology.
Formal medical interpreting programs often spend time dealing with one of the core aspects of the profession. There is more than linguistic and medical knowledge. Interpreters must understand the cultures people come from to fully facilitate the conversation between medical staff and patients. Differences in culture can be as significant as differences in language and can obstruct medical care when the interpreter is not sufficiently qualified.
Currently, a person hoping to become a medical interpreter is not required to complete certified training, and there is no national US certification for interpreters. Hospitals and other medical facilities can determine exactly what standards they set in hiring new medical interpreters. This is expected to change, and possibly quickly. Organizations such as the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters are moving in the direction of seeking national certification in an effort to maintain consistent quality of care and competence among interpreters.
While certification is not yet required for a person wanting to become a medical interpreter, there are other requirements besides language skills, cultural knowledge, and strong medical terminology skills. Interpreters can be present during medical examinations and even emergencies. This means they can receive many medical treatments and must have a strong stomach or tolerance for it, as well as be discreet and professional in many circumstances.
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