Medical Interpreter II

POSITION SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Operations Supervisor, the Medical Interpreter II serves as a medical interpreter for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) patients, family members and health care providers in the consecutive and simultaneous modes. This role relays medical information between speakers of two different languages in compliance with all hospital policies and procedures, particularly relating to patient confidentiality, informed consent, and the Code of Ethics. Incumbent is responsible for recording all interactions and maintaining appropriate documentation while maximizing customer satisfaction.

This position also supports the operations of the department, completes special projects, leads activities to improve processes/ efficiencies, administers on-the-job training and mentors’ junior staff.

COMPETENCIES:

Education: A.A degree required, preferably in an area related to science or Human or Health Services. Equivalent work experience can be substituted at a 2:1 level.

Knowledge: • Requires demonstrated proficiency (both oral and written) in English and the target language(s) at a level that ensures accurate and understandable interpretation. (Determined by an entry test coordinated by Language Services).

• Ability to interpret accurately using consecutive and simultaneous mode

• Advanced knowledge of cultural standards and customs of the international region from which LEP community patients originate.

• Knowledge of medical terminology and anatomy required.

• Knowledge of Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) required

• Demonstrated commitment to Patient safety and excellent customer service practices.

Skills/ Abilities / Competencies

Required:

• High level of interpersonal and organizational skills is required to interact and interpret for LEP patients in delicate and sometimes high pressure and stressful situations.

• Ability to handle multiple tasks in fast-paced environment. Advanced Time management skills

• Ability to make a judgment to resolve issues proactively.

Machines, Tools, Equipment: Utilize computer systems and other hospital software as needed. Familiarity with video conferencing and

telephonic interpreting equipment preferred.

Home Office Requirements:

• High speed broadband internet access connection, and adequate power source

• Secure and private work area conducive to effectively work with no interruptions, and within HIPAA

regulations. Maintains equipment in good working condition, and reports problems immediately to super

DIMENSIONS:

Budget Responsibility: None

• Ability to take direction and follow institutional guidelines and procedures

• Ability to work as a committed team member in a culturally diverse environment by contributing in a positive, enthusiastic, engaged and collaborative manner

• Work involves flexibility in terms of hours and the need to adjust to a fast-paced, clinical and office environment with frequently changing priorities.

• Ability to precisely and accurately interpret critical medical information in all modalities (i.e phone, video, in person, etc) from English to the patient's native language & from the native language to English

• Occasionally may translate foreign language materials such as discharge instructions, short articles, correspondence and/or patient education materials (requiring successful qualification). Position requires collaboration with members of the health care team on multiple units in order to prioritize workload.

Required Licensure,

Certification, Etc.:

(**to be obtained by the 2nd year of employment):

Successful completion of a Medical Interpreter Skills (or Cyracom) language competency assessment approved by Johns Hopkins Language Services department.

• Medical Terminology completion of training***

• National Code of Ethics for Interpreters in Healthcare***

• National Certification of Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI) (IMIA) preferred

• Cultural Competence completion of training (i.e. Bridging the Gap) preferred

Work Experience (*Qualified applicants must successfully complete the Interpreter-readiness language competency assessment)

Three years of professional interpretation experience required. Experience in a health care setting