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Medical Interpreter Position Paper

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Medical Interpreters assist with translating for patients who do not speak English and need help communicating with their doctors and nurses. They orally translate the patient's language into English so the doctor, nurse, or other health care provider can understand the patient's needs, and they translate the English into the patient's language so the patient can understand what is wrong with them and how the doctor, nurse, or other health care provider plans to treat their condition. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in the broader occupation category of interpreters and translators, which includes medical interpreters, was projected to increase by 29% during the 2014-2024 decade. The BLS reported in May 2015 that the median annual salary for interpreters and translators was $44,190. …show more content…

A would-be interpreter can complete a program in a foreign language, or multiple ones if they so choose. They may also need to complete some medical terminology and anatomy courses, so they understand what doctors are saying and translate it easier for the patient. They may also have to take cultural anthropology courses so they have a sensitivity to cultural issues and know if a treatment option might violate a patient's cultural or religious beliefs and help them explore alternative treatments. Medical interpreters need strong verbal communication skills, fluency in at least two or more languages, listening skills, cultural sensitivity, and mastery of healthcare related terminology. It is also recommended that aspiring medical interpreters take many English and Biology classes along with foreign language classes starting in high school and through college, if they choose to pursue a bachelor's

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