Medical Interpreter, Cantonese

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The Medical Interpreter I is responsible for assessing the needs of patients and providing assistance by interpreting consent forms, diagnoses, discharge plans and any other type of patient‑related information.

Located in Boston and the surrounding communities, Dana‑Farber Cancer Institute is a leader in life‑changing breakthroughs in cancer research and patient care. We are united in our mission of conquering cancer, HIV/AIDS, and related diseases. We strive to create an inclusive, diverse, and equitable environment where we provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients of all backgrounds, and design programs to promote public health particularly among high‑risk and underserved populations.

We conduct groundbreaking research that advances treatment, we educate tomorrow’s physicians/researchers, and we work with amazing partners, including other Harvard Medical School‑affiliated hospitals.

• Immediately and effectively answer requests for interpretation throughout the Institute, with a priority for emergency and more urgent requests.
• Arrive on time to appointments and provide services from the point of entry through discharge.
• Interpret and transmit accurately and understandably complex medical information from medical providers to patients (including consent forms, diagnoses, procedures, discharge plans, and any other patient‑related information) and also interpret information from patients to medical providers.
• Assist patients and clinical providers throughout the hospital system in a professional and courteous manner; provide the highest quality of service at each appointment to every patient; if necessary, refer the patient to the appropriate resource.
• Seek evaluation, certification, and additional training in interpreting, health‑care practices and beliefs, and cultural differences.
• Maintain a collaborative work environment and assist Interpreter Services staff with office‑related tasks as needed.
• Accept and process assignments for the language, following office protocol, logging information properly, contacting patients, and notifying the Interpreter Services department of any changes in a timely manner.
• Maintain complete and accurate records of services rendered and documentation of all patient‑related information.
• Resolve most issues that arise in their daily responsibilities, answer questions, and make appropriate referrals. More complex issues are handled by the Supervisor of Interpreter Services.
• Interpret medical information between medical providers and patients/families in three modalities: in‑person/on‑campus, video, or telephonic interpretation.
• Recognize and respect diversity for all patients and the Dana‑Farber workforce.
• Intervene as a cultural broker when communication is compromised by culture‑bound messages.
• Follow the recognized Medical Interpreter Codes of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
• Perform other tasks, duties and responsibilities as needed.
• Adhere to department procedures for initial interpreter screening and ongoing competencies by completing and passing an assessment, which includes medical terminology, code of ethics and standards of practice, the role of the medical interpreter, and interpreter skills.

• Strong ability to concentrate and be detail‑oriented, possess culturally sensitive care and the ability to transmit information accurately and completely.
• Strong interpersonal skills in difficult and demanding situations.
• Excellent organizational skills to evaluate relative needs, set priorities, solve problems, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to follow directions with minimal supervision.

• Bachelor’s Degree with a concentration in a human relations field (e.g., Sociology, Psychology) preferred.
• One year of experience working as a medical interpreter required.
• Working knowledge of medical terminology, basic anatomy, physiology, diagnostic procedures, and treatments, and understanding of the role of the medical interpreter and nationally recognized medical interpreting codes of ethics and standards…