Medical Interpreter Training - Community Course

This course is designed to equip students with necessary skills and knowledge to become proficient in medical interpretation and start working as an interpreter in Utah. This program is the first step towards a national certification with the Certification Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI) or the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters (NBCMI). Participants will gain practical experience through real-world scenarios, interactive exercises, and case studies.

Add a layer of professionalism to your bilingual abilities

1. Gain a comprehensive understanding of medical interpretation
2. Enhance language proficiency in medical terminology
3. Develop cultural competency for effective communication
4. Practical experience through simulated scenarios
5. Expert guidance from experienced instructors
6. Access to additional learning resources and materials
7. Certificate of Completion

Summer 2026 40-Hour Healthcare Certification Community Graduates

Summer 2026 40-Hour Healthcare Certification Community Graduates
USU MOAB Campus


Fall 2025 40-Hour Healthcare Certification Community Graduates

Fall 2025 40-Hour Healthcare Certification Community Graduates
USU Salt Lake City Campus

Next Course Start
Course flyer listing the date range as June 6-29, the location as Utah State University Campus Moab, Utah, and the format as via Zoom only for people in Price and Blanding. It lists a contact email

Health Care Interpreter
Free 40 Hr. Medical Interpreting Training Certification

This program will take place in person at Utah State University Campus 920 W Levoy Dr, Taylorsville, UT 84123i. Starting on September 26 to October 17.

Contact: translation@usu.edu
Taylorsville Contact: taira.dettore@usu.edu

Register

Course Prerequisites
  • At least 18 years old 
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Proof of language proficiency
  • Basic computer skills

Faculty Advisor

Elsa Pérez

Elsa Pérez

Assistant Professor, Co-Director Translation & Interpretation Studies

801-358-9085
MHC 214
elsa.perez@usu.edu

Spanish Healthcare Club
USU Students who complete this course may be interested in joining the Spanish Healthcare Club, which provides opportunities for service, education, and leadership to members who speak Spanish and are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare.
More Information about the Spanish Healthcare Club

Proof of Language Proficiency

Bilingual proficiency in English and the other language may be demonstrated in the following ways:

  • High school diploma or equivalent, or university/college degree from an English-speaking country
  • Successful completion of extensive coursework at the post-secondary level, resulting in a degree, with the majority of classes conducted in English
  • Time spent studying and/or working in an English-speaking country, where you were required to perform tasks at a professional level in English daily
  • Passing score on any English language proficiency test from a reputable testing organization (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) with a level of B2 in CEFR or equivalent
  • Successful passing of an established interpreter/translator certification exam (that includes a language-specific performance test), such as:
    • The Federal Court Interpreter Certification Exam (FCICE)
    • Any National Center for State Court (NCSC) exam
    • State or federal certification or oral language exams ACTFL Advance Midlevel or IRL level 2

Course Content

1. Introduction to Medical Interpretation
  • Understanding the role of a medical interpreter
  • Code of ethics and professional standards
  • Communication skills and active listening techniques

2. Medical Terminology and Anatomy
  • Common medical terms and abbreviations
  • Human anatomy and body systems
  • Accurate interpretation of medical jargon

3. Health Care Settings and Procedures
  • Overview of different health care settings
  • Interpreting during medical examinations
  • Understanding medical procedures and tests

4. Cultural Competency in Health Care
  • Cross-cultural communication in health care
  • Recognizing and respecting cultural differences
  • Overcoming cultural barriers in interpretation

5. Interpreting for Specific Medical Specialties
  • Interpreting for cardiology, pediatrics, oncology, etc.
  • Specialized medical terminology and procedures
  • Handling sensitive and challenging situations

6. Legal and Ethical Considerations
  • HIPAA regulations and patient confidentiality
  • Legal issues in medical interpretation
  • Professional boundaries and self-care

7. Interpreting Skills Practice
  • Simulated interpreting exercises
  • Role-playing scenarios
  • Feedback and self-assessment

8. Professional Development and Career Opportunities
  • Building a professional portfolio
  • Networking and professional organizations
  • Job prospects and career advancement