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Translation/Interpretation. Medical Interpretation By Torrie Fishel. The Big Questions. 1.What is the typical process of becoming an interpreter? Is there a certification requirement? 2. Is it possible to become a translator without being a native speaker?
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Translation/Interpretation Medical Interpretation By Torrie Fishel
The Big Questions • 1.What is the typical process of becoming an interpreter? Is there a certification requirement? • 2. Is it possible to become a translator without being a native speaker? • 3. What are typical hours for most interpreters? • 4. What is the most challenging parts of your career?
1. Requirements of being an interpreter • No formal process as of yet. • Private companies may have their own proficiency tests • Due to the vast number of languages and dialects it is difficult to make a national certification. • Sarah’s story: went from working at Carle Clinic insurance department -> part-time interpreter -> full-time interpreter
2. Is it necessary to be a native speaker? • NO! Whoo-hooo! • Out of the two (or more) working languages, nearly everyone has a stronger language. • It is beneficial to have a better knowledge of the English language, as the medical staff tends to use more complex vocabulary.
3. What are typical hours? • Many people do freelance, which is mostly on-call work. • Others work through agencies, giving their hours of availability and then receive scheduled translation appointments. • Some agencies/companies offer full-time employment.
Hours, cont’d • Those who rely on translating as sole income usually opt to work full-time. • Very stressful lifestyle, and so some clinics are beginning to offer benefits to full-time employees. • Those who are contracted independently typically earn more money.
4. What is the most challenging aspect? • Language barrier • Various dialects, accents • Technical medical jargon • Respecting time of the provider • Role as an interpreter can be unclear • Most individual companies will have their own personal code of ethics, but it is often unknown to patients.
General Info • Salary: $25,00-$45,00 • Job outlook: excellent • Sarah Cranston, Carle Clinic Association • sarah.cranston@carle.com • www.ncihc.org • www.mmia.org