Overview
Under the direction of the Director of Quality & Safety, the Regional Language Program Manager will be responsible to work with leadership in ensuring effective language access for Deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf Blind and limited English-proficient (LEP) patients by: participating in screening, hiring and supervising interpreters contracted interpreters; acting as liaison with language services vendors to include VRI (Video Remote Interpreting); consulting around provision of interpreting and translation services throughout the organization; and providing education to staff and providers regarding language access and its impact on patient safety. In addition, they will provide American Sign Language (ASL)/English interpreting University of Health Network-CVPH as well as the University of Vermont Health Network-Alice Hyde Location to include offsite location as needed. This individual will establish and oversee the Language Program at CVPH and Alice Hyde Medical Center.
The position requires knowledge pertinent to the application of various models and modalities of communication enhancements, such as the ability to proficiently speak, read and write English and sign in American Sign Language or demonstrate knowledge about the practice of the use of ASL with patients based on need. Alternatively, the ability to provide medical interpretation for patients who have limited English Proficiency may be substituted for this position, Excellent interpersonal skills required. Must be able to work in a variety of health care settings and with various family and extended community gatherings. Ability to set priorities in demanding situations and successfully communicate priorities and assist with problem solving to achieve results. Good computer skills. Knowledge of healthcare interpreter and professional standards of best practice to ensure consistent quality and performance, including accuracy, confidentiality, impartiality, respect, cultural awareness, role boundaries, professionalism, self –development and advocacy. Knowledge of and adhere to the health care professional interpreter’s codes of ethics. Must have the ability to travel to various to satellite sites to provide interpretation and education.
Responsibilities
Coordinates with leadership to implement goals and priorities for the organization outreach and Education for providers, staff, patients and families and community via presentations, training, and one-on-one outreach, trains providers and staff on culturally appropriate approaches to Working with Deaf and Limited English proficient patients; educates staff, patients and families on the importance of engaging professional interpreters; teaches employees how to access and utilize interpreters via various modalities.
In collaboration with UVHN- CVPH and Alice Hyde’s Marketing Department, produces varied accessible audio-visual materials and projects for greater community awareness and education.
Provides centralized information and referral services for those seeking language resources; assists staff in providing optimal language access to ensure patient understanding and safety.
Coordinates the purchase of materials for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Kits (assistive/adaptive technologies) for use by and with patients throughout the organization; trains staff on ADA Kit devices, their use and maintenance.
Addresses systems to ensure accurate record of patients preferred language for healthcare.
Solicits input from Deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf, Blind and LEP patients to meet the linguistic access needs of providers and patients.
Recruits, retains, and verifies competency of any and all interpreters that are contracted with UVHN-CVPH and Alice Hyde.
Supervises interpreter staff, works closely with case managers and social workers, providers, hospital staff and interpreters to help coordinate ASL and deaf interpretation and have systems set-up to provide ASL and deaf interpretation both during normal business hours and afterhours.
On a day to day basis, helps problem-solve complex requests for interpretation and deal with concerns, complaints and challenges inherent in providing interpretation 24/7, at multiple sites and for those with special needs.
Provides medical interpretation for patients with hearing loss and their family members in the organization during encounters with hospital providers, nurses and staff members.
Works with accounting to establish billing practice for contracted interpreters and VRI services.
Qualifications
Associates degree in health field or language required. Bachelors preferred.
Must be registered through the Registry of Interpreters for the deaf (RID) is required within 6 months of hire.
Successful completion of a formal program in medical interpreting required within 6 months of hire.
The equivalent of a minimum of five (5) years of full time ASL interpreting is required.
Microsoft Outlook and video conference phone experience is preferred.