Interpreter PD

Summary
Reports to the Manager of Interpreter Services. Provides both oral and written foreign language interpretation and translation services to patients and families in all areas of the hospital. Explains hospital policies and procedures and provides assistance to patients who have language difficulties. All essential functions performed in this position reflect the age‑specific needs of the patients.

Responsibilities

Provides oral and written foreign language interpretation services to patients.

Interprets with precision and accuracy, conveying source language messages into equivalent target language messages.

Translates and provides directions to patients regarding complex treatments, procedures, medications, and diets.

Directs patients to appointments by phone instructions or by physical escort.

Conducts patient interviews to complete required forms.

Interprets questions and instructions from doctors, nurses, and other hospital employees to patients, including technical terms, and explains patient responses to staff.

Translates diets, prescribed diet information, and food consumption reports to nutritionists and patients.

Translates medication instructions, letters, medical summaries, and general translation requests.

Explains the hospital billing system, hospital bills, and third‑party procedures, assisting patients in completing related documents.

Assists patients in locating financial aid, nursing home care, etc., by translating information.

Interprets and translates for employees and supervisors in the Personnel Health Clinic and in departmental or individual employee meetings.

Communicates for patients and employees with outside agencies, including hospitals, clinics, welfare, social security, and insurance companies; provides medical information to overseas doctors and hospitals when required.

May provide training and teaching of foreign words and phrases to hospital personnel to facilitate communication and allay patient anxiety.

Provides general information regarding cultural issues and ethnic attitudes.

Records and maintains related logs, records, and statistical data.

Maintains quality assurance, safety, environmental, and infection control in accordance with established hospital department policies and procedures.

Performs other related duties as required, fostering patient and family centered care in accordance with Brown University Health mission, vision, values, and the philosophy of nursing at The Miriam Hospital, considering all developmental stages and cultural patterns.

Minimum Qualifications

Associate’s Degree or equivalent level of experience.

Fluency and proficiency in English and a target foreign language; Spanish fluency is required.

Completion of a registered medical interpreter certificate program of at least 40 hours duration with a passing final assessment.

Ability to accurately provide oral and written interpretation services.

Demonstrated proficiency in medical terminology in English and the target foreign language.

Interpersonal and communication skills to effectively interact with medical providers and patients in emotionally charged situations.

Experience
Three years of formal training or experience and fluency in a foreign language.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements
Healthcare environment such as acute care hospitals, physician practices, and ancillary healthcare enterprises. Hazards are minimized by adherence to established safety procedures and precautions.

Pay Range
$24.29 – $40.07

EEO Statement
Brown University Health is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a work environment free from all forms of unlawful discrimination and harassment.

Location
The Miriam Hospital — 164 Summit Ave, Providence, Rhode Island 02906

Work Type
Per Diem

Work Shift
Variable

Daily Hours
Per Diem — As required

Driving Required
No

#J-18808-Ljbffr