Interpreter/Transport Specialist
About the position Vecinos is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization that provides traditional and mobile clinics with integrated primary and mental healthcare, health education, and case management to uninsured, low-income community members. We offer a positive, supportive, and team-oriented atmosphere. We work in a non-traditional environment with limited resources. Schedules and hours vary throughout the year. The Interpreter/Transport Specialist supports patient access to care through interpretation, transportation, and operational support. This position helps ensure effective communication, reduce barriers to care, and support the delivery of high-quality services in the clinic, Mobile Clinic, and community settings.
Responsibilities
- Provide accurate and professional interpretation between Spanish-speaking patients and healthcare providers during in-person, telehealth, Mobile Clinic, and community-based encounters.
- Ensure patients understand medical information, treatment plans, referrals, medications, and follow-up instructions.
- Support patients in navigating healthcare services and communicating questions or concerns.
- Collaborate with providers, nurses, medical assistants, behavioral health staff, outreach staff, and community partners to support patient care.
- Coordinate interpretation and transportation services based on patient needs and available resources.
- Transport patients to and from approved medical appointments and healthcare-related services.
- Document interpretation services, transportation activities, and patient interactions in the Electronic Health Record as required.
- Assist with patient outreach, appointment reminders, referrals, and enabling services.
- Provide occasional support to front desk, medical assistant, and clinic operations to help maintain efficient patient flow and clinic operations.
- Assist with Mobile Clinic operations, including driving, interpretation, patient flow, setup, and breakdown.
- Maintain agency vehicles in a clean and safe condition and report maintenance concerns.
- Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and organizational policies.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support patient care and clinic operations.
Requirements
- Fluency in English and Spanish: Native or near-native proficiency in both English and Spanish, with the ability to accurately interpret medical terminology in both languages.
- Previous experience or training in medical interpretation or a healthcare environment.
- Strong verbal and listening skills to ensure clear, accurate communication.
- Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced healthcare setting
- Adaptability: Flexible and able to adjust quickly to diverse medical situations and work environments.
- Professionalism: Maintains neutrality, emotional composure, and ethical standards.
- Legal and Ethical Knowledge: Understanding of patient confidentiality laws (HIPAA) and ethical standards in medical interpretation, including patient rights and the importance of neutrality.
- Cultural Competency: Understanding of cultural nuances and the ability to convey culturally appropriate messages in healthcare settings.
Nice-to-haves
- Certified Medical Interpreter: Certification through a recognized body, such as the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI) or Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI).
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Minimum of a high school diploma.
- Prior Experience in Medical Interpreting: At least 3 years of prior experience in medical interpreting, particularly in clinical or hospital settings, is preferred.
- Experience with Electronic Health Records (EHR): Familiarity with EHR systems and medical documentation processes.
- Ability to handle high-pressure situations: Demonstrated ability to work effectively in high-stress environments, such as emergency rooms or urgent care settings.
Benefits
- Generous Insurance
- Retirement
- Vacation
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