Medical Interpreter

Primary Purpose

Provides Spanish language medical interpretation, in person or by video/phone for patient, family members and medical staff for Parkland's full scope of services.

MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS

Education

• GED or High School Diploma.

Experience

• None.

Equivalent Education and/or Experience

• None.

Certification/Registration/Licensure

• None.

Required Tests for Placement

• Clinical Spanish Screening Exam must be passed with a 75% or higher (may be waived if candidate is Nationally Certified, Qualified Medical Interpreter, or already has qualifying Clinical proficiency exam scores on file.
• Clinical proficiency exam:
• Must achieve 'Non-clinical' or 'Clinical' designation in 'Overall Language Proficiency'.
• Garcia Shilling Test Scores of 80% or above in Oral and Medical Terminology may be substituted if already on file.

Skills or Special Abilities

• Must be able to successfully complete intensive Medical Interpreter Qualification Training Program
• Achieve 'Clinical' designation for 'Overall Language Proficiency' by end of training program.
• Adhere to the Medical Interpreter Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
• Able to speak formal, clinical English and Spanish.
• Communicate effectively, orally, with patients, families, and hospital staff.
• Intermediate to advanced knowledge of medical terminology and medical procedures.
• Demonstrate patient centered/patient valued behaviors.
• Provide in person medical interpretation in all of Parkland's locations/settings. May be required to rotate to other areas as needed.
• Provide video and audio interpretation in a call center environment. May be required to rotate to others as needed.
• Maintains acceptable productivity and quality standards as established by management to ensure effective and efficient operations.
• Demonstrates a working knowledge of personal computers, software packages, and standard office equipment.
• Successfully completes additional job related training when offered.
• Functions in a team environment.

Responsibilities

• Performs medical interpretation duties in person and by phone/video for Spanish speaking patients, families and visitors for Parkland's full scope of services per the Medical Interpreter Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
• Complies and supports all department standard operating procedures.
• Creates and maintains accurate and compliant documentation for the electronic medical record.
• Meets or exceeds department productivity and quality standards.

Job Accountabilities

• Identifies ways to improve work processes and improve customer satisfaction. Makes recommendations to supervisor, implements, and monitors results as appropriate in support of the overall goals of the department and Parkland.
• Stays abreast of the latest developments, advancements, and trends in the field by attending seminars/workshops, reading professional journals, actively participating in professional organizations, and/or maintaining certification or licensure. Integrates knowledge gained into current work practices.
• Maintains knowledge of applicable rules, regulations, policies, laws and guidelines that impact the area. Develops effective internal controls designed to promote adherence with applicable laws, accreditation agency requirements, and federal, state, and private health plans. Seeks advice and guidance as needed to ensure proper understanding.