To be certified as a medical interpreter in the U.S., what must an individual do?

To be certified as a medical interpreter in the U.S., an individual must pass an exam administered by a recognized certification body, such as the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI) or the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI). These certifications are essential as they ensure that interpreters possess the necessary knowledge, skills, and ethical understanding required to accurately and effectively facilitate communication in medical settings.

Passing one of these rigorous exams demonstrates an interpreter's competence in both language proficiency and the specific terminology used in healthcare, which is crucial for ensuring patient safety and understanding. This certification process also includes knowledge of healthcare systems, patient rights, and the ethical dilemmas that may arise during medical interpreting.

While options like completing an internship, attending workshops, or joining an interpreter association can be beneficial in gaining experience and professional development, they are not required steps for certification. The certification exams serve as the primary measure of an interpreter's readiness to work in the medical field, emphasizing the importance of formal assessment in this specialized area.