Interpreter, Spanish, On Call

Schedule Weekly Hours:

• On Call (hours vary depending on need)
• The candidate that fills this position will also need to be able to report to the La Crosse campus within 60 minutes of being notified there is an interpreter need
• La Crosse and Onalaska locations
• Flexibility to train during the week until comfortable with the job duties

• Relay medical information between speakers of two different languages
• Ensure that information communicated by providers and staff is understood by the patient and family
• Work cooperatively with other team members and departments

• Support to grow in your career with access to our Career Development Center
• Shift differentials for working PM, Night & Weekend hours
• Deliver Love + Medicine every day
• Great work / life balance

• High School Diploma or equivalency
• A passing score on oral proficiency test through language testing agency in target language which evaluates knowledge of medical terminology (This is something Gundersen will provide to you if you are selected)

Provide professional medical interpretation for patients with limited English proficiency in order to ensure equal access to services and quality care. Work with providers and other staff to understand the scope and limitations of the interpreter role, best practices for utilizing interpreter services and how cross-cultural considerations may impact communication and customer service.

Major Responsibilities:
1. Relay medical information between speakers of two different languages. Adhere to Gundersen policies and procedures, especially those related to patient confidentiality and informed consent.
2. Assist patients and providers in establishing the optimal environment for communicating through an interpreter. Explain the role of the interpreter and the protocol/mode of interpretation to be used as appropriate. Render the message accurately and completely, conveying the context and spirit of the original message, taking into consideration cultural context as appropriate.
3. Ensure that information communicated by providers and staff is understood by the patient and family. Ensure that the information communicated by the patient and family is understood by providers and staff. Explain cultural differences or practices to providers and patients when appropriate.
4. Serve as an advocate when the patient's health, well-being or dignity is at risk following established limits and protocols as instructed. Consult with clinical manager for guidance and direction as required.
5. Make referrals to social workers, patient business services, service excellence and others who can assist patients and their families with concerns outside of the interpreter's scope of practice. Consult with clinical manager for guidance and direction as required.
6. Support department operations by answering the phone, facilitating appointments and scheduling. Document use of interpreter services to assist with determining current level of service delivery and potential future needs.
7. Work cooperatively with other team members. Project a positive attitude about colleagues within the department and organization at large. Provide constructive feedback.
8. Serves as a resource for the organization on issues related to limited English proficiency, cultural competency and access. Provides education for providers and staff. Assist with planning and implementation of projects and programs aimed at improving understanding, awareness, communication, access and cultural competency.
9. Performs other job-related responsibilities.

Education and Learning:
REQUIRED
High School Diploma or equivalency
and a passing score on oral proficiency test through language testing agency in target language which evaluates knowledge of medical terminology.

DESIRED
Associate degree in Interpreting or a health related field

Work Experience:
REQUIRED
1 year of customer service experience

DESIRED
1 year in medical setting and/or as a medical interpreter.

License and Certifications:
DESIRED
National Medical Interpreter Certification
National Interpreting Certification

Age Specific Population Served:
Infant (less than 1 year)
Pediatric (1 - 12 years)
Adolescent (13 - 17 years)
Adult (18 - 64 years)
Geriatric (65 years & older)

OSHA Category:
Category I - All Employees in this job title have a reasonably anticipated risk of occupational exposure to blood and/or other potentially infectious materials.

Environmental Conditions:
Exposed to infectious diseases.

Physical Requirements/Demands Of The Position:
Sitting Occasionally (6-33% or 3 hours)
Static Standing Frequently (34-66% or 5.5 hours)
Walking/Standing Frequently (34-66% or 5.5 hours)
Reaching - Below Shoulder Occasionally (6-33% or 3 hours)
Repetitive Actions - Fine Manipulation Rarely (1-5% or .5 hours)

If you need assistance with any portion of the application or have questions about the position, please contact HR-Recruitment@gundersenhealth.org or call 608-775-0267

Equal Opportunity Employer