At present, the demand for medical interpreters is very strong. The state of California has recently passed a law requiring certification for medical-legal interpreters, that is, those who interpret for medical evaluations of patients who have filed workers compensation claims or personal injury law suits. During the transition period, while existing medical interpreters are attempting to pass the certification exams, which are very difficult, there will be a lot of opportunities for newcomers who have already passed these exams.
Some medical interpreters work on their own as independent contractors with their own clientele, but most work through interpreting agencies for a fixed fee, perhaps $10 to $20 per hour. There are also full-time jobs available for interpreters in hospitals and clinics. At present, no certification is required for such interpreters in most states.
To become a certified medical-legal interpreter, the first step after completing ACEBO's Interpreter's Rx self-study course is to take the certification exams. After you have passed the exams, you should notify law firms, insurance companies, and interpreting agencies of your availability for interpreting assignments. To work as a full-time employee in a hospital or clinic, you need to follow their established procedures for applying for employment.
The medical terminology and interpreting techniques taught in The Interpreter's Rx are designed to help you prepare for the medical certifications exams, but there is no guarantee that you will pass these difficult exams your first time. After using these materials, however, you will have a firm grasp of medical terminology and interpreting techniques, and you will know what areas you need to master to pass the exams.
For information about medical-legal certification exams in California, call (916) 263-3600.
If you have other questions, you can address them to Holly Mikkelson at
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