Interpreter

This position provides oral interpretation and limited written translation between limited English proficient (LEP) patients and their family and English-speaking providers and other members of the patient care team. Will provide minimal clerical assistance. Must have proven verbal and written fluency in English and a second language. Must possess excellent customer service skills, be able to work independently, be able to multitask, and be a self-starter. Will follow the national standards of practice and ethics as defined by the National Council on Interpreting in Health Care. National certification as a medical/health care interpreter preferred. Adheres to federal and state laws regarding medical interpreting as well as system and department policies. Is courteous and helpful in all interactions with patients, visitors, and coworkers. Observes and promotes Renown Health organizational standards of behavior. Adheres to all system and departmental compliance policies and any/all applicable laws and regulations. Required to perform other duties as assigned. Management has the right to add, remove, and/or change responsibilities at any time. Although not required at hire, has 12 months to gain experience and knowledge and then must obtain the highest level of national certification for the individual's language pair as a healthcare/medical interpreter from either national organization providing testing within 18 months of hire. Subsequent to obtaining national certification, must fulfill continuing education unit (CEU) requirements to maintain it. If not fully certified CHI/CMI (written and oral), must take oral certification exam within six months of when it becomes available for language pair.

Provides fluid consecutive or simultaneous verbal interpretation to assist patients, families, and providers. Follows national standards of Accuracy, Confidentiality, Impartiality, Respect, Cultural Awareness, Role Boundaries, Professionalism, Professional Development, and Advocacy.

Spot/Sight translates only brief passages of up to 3 paragraphs. Forwards frequently used documents/instructions to Interpreter & Translation Services for translation.

Documents interpreting encounters in electronic medical record and other systems as required by department during or at the end of each shift with at least 80% accuracy.

Functions as team member both within the health system as well as with Interpreter and Translation Services. Informs departmental office staff of his/her availability between encounters and returns to office if possible or if requested. Logs in to automated call distribution telephone line when in main office. Responds as appropriate to requests for assistance by other interpreters. Responds to texts by anyone within 5 minutes to assess need. Accurately documents appointment requests by phone onto paper forms or other means required. Checks RH e-mail daily or at a minimum each time s/he works. Assists with clerical duties as needed or assigned.

Attends at least 9 monthly Interpreter & Translation Services staff meetings each year. Attends a minimum of 10 hours of medical interpreter or related training during first 12 months after hire and works toward national certification. Studies medical terminology in English and target language continuously.

The foregoing description is not intended and should not be construed to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills and efforts or work conditions associated with the job. It is intended to be an accurate reflection of the general nature and level of the job.

Name

Description

Education:

High School/GED required. Bachelor’s degree preferred with courses on medical interpretation and translation, language studies.

Experience:

One year of medical interpretation experience preferred.

License(s):

None

Certification(s):

Certified Medical Interpreter (CMI) or Certified Healthcare Interpreter (CHI) highly preferred or process completed within 18 months of hiring date.

Computer / Typing:

Must possess the computers skills necessary to complete online learning requirements for job-specific competencies, access online forms and policies, complete online benefits enrollment, etc. Type 25 WPM.