Medical interpreter training can be obtained in a variety of ways, some of which lead to formalized certification, which can increase a medical interpreter’s employability. People interested in working as medical interpreters should consider enrolling in such programs and joining a professional organization, as these credentials will appeal to potential employers and may be required some large hospitals and clinics. Those who are more interested in simply serving their communities as patient advocates can opt for less rigorous training.
To be a successful medical interpreter, you’ll need specialized training. These professionals must be able to communicate effectively and comfortably in a foreign language, as well as have a thorough understanding of medical terminology, medical procedures, and how to present information about medical conditions and procedures to patients. People who want to work as medical translators, translating documents ranging from test results to academic papers from one language to another, will need even more training.
Several colleges and universities offer formal medical interpreter training, sometimes as part of a larger program that trains interpreters, and sometimes as a separate medical interpreter training program. If their students are interested in becoming medical interpreters, schools of public health can train them or refer them to organizations that provide training. These programs assess students against stringent criteria, awarding degrees only to those who are competent and qualified to work as interpreters.
Medical interpretation courses are occasionally offered language schools and schools that train interpreters. These courses can be completed in as little as 50 hours of classroom time and assume that interpreters are already bilingual. Programs that provide language proficiency should be taken first people who have never learned a second language, so that students feel comfortable learning interpretation skills. For someone who is not already multilingual, learning a second language can take several years, making becoming a medical interpreter a significant commitment.
Some hospitals and community organizations offer additional training opportunities. These medical interpreter training programs frequently use an apprenticeship model, with trainees learning skills shadowing experienced interpreters. They can also include some classroom time to familiarize themselves with medical terminology and hospital procedures. Volunteering with a community organization to receive medical interpreter training and work in hospitals and clinics can help ensure that foreign language speakers, immigrants, and tourists receive the medical care they require.