What are the responsibilities and job description for the Medical Interpreter position at GRAND ISLAND CLINIC INC?
Job Summary:
As an Interpreter at Grand Island Clinic, you will provide language interpretation services to assist in communication between clinic staff and patients with limited English proficiency. This position plays a vital role in ensuring accurate, clear, and culturally sensitive communication during patient visits across all departments, including Obstetrics (OB), Pediatrics (PEDS), and Family Medicine. In addition to in-person interpretation, you will assist with answering patient phone calls and responding to voicemails. The Interpreter helps support access to care and patient understanding while contributing to a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- None
Essential Job Functions:
- Provide accurate and confidential interpretation services for patients and clinic staff in a variety of settings including OB, PEDS, Family Medicine, and other departments as needed.
- Interpret during medical appointments, procedures, follow-up visits, and patient education sessions.
- Assist with incoming patient phone calls and respond to voicemails in both English and the required language(s).
- Facilitate clear communication between providers and patients, ensuring that information is accurately conveyed and understood.
- Maintain patient confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA regulations at all times.
- Support front office and clinical staff with communication needs for scheduling, registration, and care coordination.
- Document interpretation encounters as required by clinic protocols.
- Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse populations.
- Provide interpretation services both in person and by phone as needed throughout the day.
- Collaborate with care teams to ensure a positive and respectful experience for all patients.
- Participate in training or meetings related to language access services, patient services procedures, or compliance.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Skills/Abilities:
- Proficiency in both English and the target language(s); ability to interpret medical terminology accurately.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with patients and healthcare staff.
- Knowledge of professional interpretation standards and confidentiality practices.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced clinical setting while maintaining professionalism.
- Strong customer service and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to remain neutral, unbiased, and culturally sensitive during interpretation.
- Basic proficiency with computer systems, phones, and voicemail systems.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
Education and Experience Requirements:
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Completion of medical interpreter training or certification preferred.
- Minimum of one (1) year of experience providing interpretation services in a healthcare or customer service setting preferred.
- Familiarity with medical terminology, procedures, and clinic workflows is a plus.
- Bilingual or multilingual fluency required, with Spanish being preferred.
Physical Demands:
- Prolonged periods of walking and standing throughout the clinic.
- Ability to sit at a workstation and answer phones or return calls as needed.
- Manual dexterity for computer and telephone use.
- Ability to hear and speak clearly in both languages for extended periods.
- Occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds for supplies or materials.