Medical Interpreter

Medical Interpreter

Additional Position Details: Part Time | FTE: 0.5 (at least 40 hours per pay period (every 2 weeks) | 1st Shift - Days

Position Summary

The Medical Interpreter provides language interpretation and/or written translation for health care staff and limited English-speaking patients from English to Spanish or vice-versa for the purpose of communicating with the Asante's health care providers and supportive staff when necessary. It requires exemplary customer service and interpersonal skills, fluency in written and spoken English and Spanish, sensitivity to cultural differences, and a knowledge of medical terminology. Must also be able to learn data entry processes and demonstrate effective use of department resources.

As a Certified Medical Interpreter for Asante - you will have the opportunity to:

• Provide phone or in-person interpretation between Spanish speaking patients or their representative and Asante health care providers and staff to include interpreting technical information such as consent forms, medical explanations, reports, and correspondence as necessary for the safety of the patient care.
• Serve as a resource to staff in areas of cultural practices and provide education to staff and physicians when indicated and apprise health care providers of cultural issues that may compromise the health care of the patient. Education may include recommending alternative communication approaches to medical staff to ensure appropriate medical treatment for non- or limited- English speaking patients.
• Develop documents as needed to enhance communication with non-English speaking patients that includes working closely with Clinical Managers to determine additional patient education documents that might be needed.
• Prepare the translation of medical information as directed by health care professionals, including but not limited to: patient education materials, prescription labels, and discharge instructions.
• Work cooperatively within the Performance Improvement department to contribute to the overall quality of the team.

Qualifications

Education

• Associate's degree in a care-related field, preferred.

Experience

• Minimum 1 year of experience in a health-related field, or equivalent in education and experience, is required.
• Good understanding of medical terminology required.
• Prior interpreter experience in an acute care setting with an understanding of hospital policies and procedures, preferred.

Licensure/Certifications

• DL: Driver's License with proof of safe driving record for the past 10 years and proof of insurance is required. Must have Oregon Driver's License within 30 days of moving to Oregon (if applicable).

One of the following is required:

• CHI: Certified Healthcare Interpreter by the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI).
• Qualified Healthcare Interpreter certified by Oregon Health Authority.

Additional Preferred Certifications: CNA, CCMA, EMT, or equivalent license/certification.

Other Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated knowledge of professional health care interpretation and/or translation.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in both English and Spanish.
• Ability to interact supportively and communicate effectively with patients, families, and significant others.
• Ability to interact with all levels of staff and physicians.
• Understanding of medical ethics and patient confidentiality.
• Capable of handling diverse activities to organize work, meet schedules, and maintain record documentation.
• Demonstrated skill with computers and experience using Microsoft Office computer applications.
• Ability to work independently/effectively under one's own supervision.
• Demonstrates a strong understanding of cultural differences and sensitivities.

What We Offer

• Competitive starting wage.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and wellness.
• Excellent retirement package with up to 6% employer contribution.
• Generous Earned Time Off.
• Tuition reimbursement after one year of service.

Why Asante

Asante is more than a great hospital system in an amazing location. We are a community of passionate providers and service-focused caregivers who collaborate to deliver amazing patient outcomes; a place where titles don't matter as much as your creativity, drive, and passion. Our culture, values and people create an environment of sustained medical excellence.

More About Asante and Southern Oregon

Asante is a local, community owned and governed, not-for-profit organization that provides comprehensive health care services to more than 550,000 people in a nine-county area of Southern Oregon and Northern California. It includes Asante Ashland Community Hospital in Ashland, Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center in Medford, Asante Three Rivers Medical Center in Grants Pass, Asante Physician Partners throughout the Rogue Valley, and additional health care partnerships. Virtually all medical specialties and services are represented within an organization dedicated to providing exceptional care. With over 5,000 employees, Asante's entities offer outstanding opportunities for career advancement and professional growth. At Asante your work positively impacts your family, friends, neighbors and the community. Experience the difference in how you work, how you live and how you connect.

At Asante we are defined by our values - traits that guide us as we serve patients and the community:

Excellence - Respect - Honesty - Service - Teamwork

Asante is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to employ and advance in employment women, minorities, qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.