Description

The Foreign Language Medical Interpreter provides accurate consecutive and/or simultaneous interpretation for Limited English Proficient (LEP) patients and their families, ensuring complete and culturally appropriate communication throughout the continuum of care.

Serving as both a language specialist and cultural liaison, the interpreter promotes understanding between patients and healthcare providers, supports equitable care delivery, and ensures adherence to regulatory requirements and professional standards. This position also participates in departmental education, documentation, and performance improvement initiatives.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Language Interpretation

• Provide accurate interpretation during medical encounters using consecutive, simultaneous, and sight translation techniques.

• Deliver interpretation services via in-person, telephone, or video remote interpretation platforms when needed.

• Support communication in a variety of clinical environments including surgery, trauma, mental health, palliative care, and discharge planning.

Cultural Mediation

• Serve as a cultural liaison to bridge communication gaps between patients and healthcare teams.

• Assist providers in understanding cultural considerations that may impact care delivery or patient decision-making.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate records of interpretation encounters including encounter type, duration, and service location.

• Ensure strict adherence to HIPAA regulations, the National Code of Ethics for Interpreters in Health Care, and Emory Healthcare policies.

Professional Development & Mentorship

• Participate in continuing education, competency validation, and departmental quality improvement initiatives.

• Mentor newly hired interpreters and participate in peer review processes.

• Provide education and training to staff regarding language access compliance and interpreter service protocols.

Operational Support

• Assist with interpreter scheduling and dispatch activities during low-volume periods.

• Support the deployment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of interpretation equipment including phones, tablets, and video remote interpretation (VRI) units.

Patient & Family Support

• Provide patient and family support by facilitating communication and navigation of care services.

• Connect patients and families with hospital or community resources as appropriate.

• Participate in on-call or after-hours coverage as required.

Travel

• Travel may be required between Emory Healthcare operating units or affiliated locations.

Work Type

Onsite

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Experience

• Two (2) years of experience in healthcare, medical interpretation, customer service, advocacy, or a related field.

• At least one (1) year of experience in medical interpretation.

Certification

Completion of a 40–60 hour Medical Interpreter Training Program such as:

• Bridging the Gap

• ALTA

• Language Line Academy

• Or equivalent program

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Required)

• Demonstrated proficiency in English and the target language (reading, writing, and speaking).

• Strong knowledge of medical terminology in both languages.

• Interpreter proficiency validated through a third-party Interpreter Skills Test (IST).

• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally in complex healthcare environments.

Preferred Qualifications

Education

Associate’s Degree in Business, Foreign Language, Healthcare Administration, or related field.

Experience

• Four (4) years of medical interpretation experience preferred.

• Experience delivering interpreter training or educational sessions.

Certification

• Certified Medical Interpreter (CMI) – National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI)

• Certified Healthcare Interpreter (CHI) – Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (Preferred)

• Advanced knowledge of medical terminology.

• Understanding of cultural humility and healthcare system navigation.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and interpreter