Medical Interpreter

Position Description: Volunteer interpreters work as the primary interface between staff and patients, providing culturally competent, caring and quality interpretation. They stay with the patient during their appointment, and make follow up calls to them with lab results and other prescribed care.

Schedule: The Volunteer Interpreter serves 3.5- 4.5 hours per shift and may sign up for specific days and times when the clinic is open and seeing patients. Currently, those hours are as follows:

1 st & 3 rd Tuesday of the month, 2:30-6pm, 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month, 12:30-5pm

Every Wednesday, 12:30-5pm

Every Thursday, 4:30-9pm

We ask for a minimum commitment of 6 months from our volunteers.

Specific Tasks:

• Provide interpretation services for patients in all areas of the clinic to include phone calls, front office reception, appointment scheduling, eligibility screening, settling patients into treatment rooms, laboratory, examination with medical personnel and assisting clinic coordinator in after care instructions.
• Maintain strict confidence of all conversations.
• Learn clinic procedures and eligibility guidelines, medical terminology and ensure the patient understands the procedures at the clinic and after-care instructions.
• May assist in translation of written materials from English to other language(s).
• May assist with outreach to outlying areas in Clackamas County.

Qualifications:

The successful Medical Interpreter will have a fluent command of English and Spanish. Formal interpreter training is required. Those with prior medical interpretation experience may also apply. Individuals who are pursuing their medical interpreter certification may complete their required hours at the clinic, as long as they have completed formal training. A 6-month commitment to the clinic is requested. The interpreter must be familiar with the National Standards of Practice for Healthcare Interpreters. Experience interpreting in the first person is preferred.

This position requires strong command of a language including the ability to clearly communicate medical terms and conditions to patients who speak limited English. Interpreter needs to be compassionate, discreet, patient and polite with understanding of the social nuances of other cultures. This position requires accompaniment of patient through all phases of a clinic visit, including intake, examination and lab.

To apply, please email cvimvolunteercoordinator@gmail.com, or send a message through this website.