HOW TO BECOME A CERTIFIED MEDICAL INTERPRETER?

 

In today’s fast-paced environment, planning to think about medical interpretation as a lucrative career may take you to places. We all know that immigration and globalization are some of the major factors that urged more and more people to look for medical services. In such a case, not understanding English may cost a lot as you are unable to communicate what’s in your mind. Hence, the need for medical interpretation services is huge, and these professionals must be well-trained to serve the patients well. Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a professional interpreter? Well, let us discuss things that will help you to become a Certified Medical Interpreter. 

Know that these professionals deliver basic health services by translating medical data to non-English speaking people who undergo medical practices. They act as the bridge between the service provider and the patient and ensure that all the essential medical recommendations and instructions are implemented. If you are multilingual, bilingual and want to help others, then this may be for you. So, let’s talk about how to become a certified medical interpreter.  

Medical Interpretation  

Being the important elements of the healthcare system, these medical interpreters work in various institutions such as nursing homes, clinics, and hospitals. They offer interpretations of medical documents for people whose native language is not English. They facilitate the patients in communicating with therapeutic assistants, doctors, psychiatrists, and other medical personnel. The role of medical interpreters is to make sure that patients fully understand their diagnosis and provide high-quality care by interpreting the doctor’s verdict. These interpreters also interpret patient’s fears and converse with doctors. 

What Do Medical Interpreters Do? 

Medical interpreters can work in a variety of clinical settings, but their main roles are usually the same. Medical interpreters translate and interpret medical information, such as diagnosis and treatment plans to patients who speak languages ​​other than English. Medical interpreters provide patients with translations of the medical equipment provided, and also translate medical legal documents, admission forms, or billing forms. Medical interpreters participate in monitoring patients and interpret for follow-up discussions with doctors, remind patients of appointments and much more.  

Want To Become a Medical Interpreter 

These certified interpreters should have at least a diploma as some hospitals may prefer applicants who were enrolled in language courses at their respective colleges. The main job of medical interpreters is to explain complicated medical reports and patients’ concerns about their treatment. Therefore, these professionals should switch between English and other languages easily and accurately. To become a certified medical interpreter, you need to be fluent and proficient in English and other languages. These professionals should correctly translate medical terms but also be able to efficiently convey information about drugs and treatments. You should also be able to ask your doctor about the concerns and thoughts of the patients. 

We at Languagers, believe that having a bachelor’s degree may help you to apply in the field of medical interpretation with relevant skills and culturally trained background. For becoming a certified interpreter, you should think of going for learning courses like intercultural communication, second language English teacher, social work, and others. To become a medical interpreter, you must complete at least 40 hours of training to work with cardiologists, psychiatrists, and others.

The United States has regulations for two national certifications that show doctors that they are qualified to serve in the field of medical interpretation. This includes Certified healthcare interpreter (CHI) and Certified medical interpreter (CMI) which help the professionals to be certified. The next step is to make an updated resume, apply for an entry-level post and keep your accreditation up to date. Now is the time to shine bright as a certified medical interpreter 😊