Medical Interpreter Job Description Template
The Medical Interpreter is responsible for providing interpretation services to patients and medical staff in order to facilitate communication and ensure that all parties understand each other. The Medical Interpreter must be fluent in both English and the target language, have a good understanding of medical terminology, and be able to effectively communicate with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. The Medical Interpreter must also be able to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines set forth by the American Association of Medical Interpreters.
Medical Interpreter Job Responsibilities
- Providing interpretation and translation services for patients who speak limited English and healthcare staff
- Ensuring effective communication between patients and staff by accurately conveying messages in both spoken and written form
- Maintaining confidentiality of patient information at all times
- Keeping up to date with medical terminology and developments in the field of medicine
- Liaising with other members of the healthcare team, such as doctors, nurses and pharmacists, to ensure that patients receive the best possible care
Objectives
- To provide interpretation services for patients and medical staff in a healthcare setting, facilitating communication and understanding between all parties.
- To ensure that all communications are accurately interpreted, conveying the meaning and intent of the speaker while preserving the confidentiality of patient information.
- To provide onsite interpretation services as needed, including during medical procedures or consultations, discharge planning meetings, and patient education sessions.
- To maintain upto-date knowledge of medical terminology in both English and the target language, keeping abreast of new developments and changes in the field.
- To liaise with other members of the healthcare team as needed to ensure optimal communication and coordination of care for patients.
- To provide written translations of medical documents as required, ensuring accuracy and clarity while preserving the confidential nature of the information contained therein
Medical Interpreter Job Skills & Qualifications Needed
- Ability to speak, read and write in both English and the target language
- Professional interpreter training
- Indepth knowledge of medical terminology in both English and the target language
- Cultural competence
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills