Centro Hispano, in collaboration with the University of Tennessee Medical Center, has launched a Medical Interpreter Training Program aimed at reducing health disparities within the Latino community.
This initiative, now in its third cohort, trains bilingual and multilingual individuals to become medical interpreters, thereby enhancing communication between healthcare providers and Latino patients. Dalia Rodriguez-Rojo, the program coordinator, emphasized the importance of having interpreters who can advocate for patients and ensure they understand their healthcare needs. The program has expanded to five local medical centers, addressing the growing demand for medical interpreters in the region.
Participants in the program, such as Daniella Lopez and Erika Tomas, undergo comprehensive training that includes workshops, role-playing scenarios, and learning medical terminology. This training equips them with the necessary skills to accurately interpret medical information and navigate the complexities of healthcare communication. Tomas highlighted the significance of building trust within the community, noting the scarcity of qualified interpreters and the critical role they play in patient care.
Rodriguez-Rojo pointed out that being bilingual is not sufficient for medical interpretation; interpreters must also understand medical ethics and terminology. The program aims to create a more equitable healthcare landscape by ensuring that Latino patients can communicate effectively with their healthcare providers. This initiative not only benefits patients but also supports aspiring medical professionals in gaining valuable experience and contributing to their communities.
See “Medical interpreter program removes language barrier for Latino community” (August 12, 2024)