3 Top Reasons to Choose a Medical Interpreter Job

In the United States, there is a considerable population of non-native English speakers. To protect them, every healthcare provider (including hospitals) is obligated by law to provide language access services for their non-English speaking patients. Medical interpreters can break down language barriers in the medical industry by using their linguistic prowess to provide interpreting services to medical providers and patients. It is undeniable that a medical interpreter job comes with a lot of responsibilities. However, it can also be a superb career choice.  Here are 3 reasons why you might want to get a certification for medical interpreters.

What are the benefits of choosing a medical interpreter job?

1. A medical interpreter job can make for a fascinating day-to-day life

Besides all the responsibilities and duties that this occupation requires, it’s also an exciting job to wake up for each morning.  If you become an interpreter, it is inevitable that you will constantly have new experiences and learn new things. Not a single day will be the same as the previous one. Flexible scheduling can be another great perk of the profession. By obtaining a medical interpreter certificate, you can organize your working and free time as you see fit. This job never requires you to be chained to a desk for 8 consecutive hours. If you pursue a career as a medical interpreter, your office becomes the entire medical facility or doctor’s office you work in!  Additionally, with a medical interpreter certification, you could possibly travel around the world and experience new cultures.

2. It has a financial future

Those who have a medical interpretation certificate are in immense demand professionally.  They’re deeply valued by their employers and the patients they serve. This leads to satisfying remuneration and financial stability. According to the US Bureau of Statistics, as of May 2018, the average annual wage of an interpreter was $49,930.  That’s projected to grow another 18% from 2016 to 2026.  This is higher than the average growth rate of 7% for all the other occupations.

3. A medical interpreter job can be tremendously fulfilling

A trip to the hospital can be very stressful for everyone, but especially for LEP (Limited English Proficiency) individuals. Ineffective communication between the doctor and patient means that the patient’s life is on the line. There is a higher possibility of a wrong diagnosis or ineffective treatment. One of the most rewarding aspects of a medical interpreter’s job is the fact that they can prevent these important issues!