What does a Healthcare Interpreter Do?

A healthcare interpreter helps patients with limited English proficiency or those who use sign language communicate effectively with healthcare providers. Interpreters accurately translate spoken or signed language, explain medical information clearly, and ensure that both patients and providers understand each other.

Training Objectives

Chemeketa’s 16-week Healthcare Interpreter Training Program teaches you the skills needed to work as an interpreter in medical settings.

You’ll learn about:

• The role of the interpreter
• Standards of practice
• The national code of ethics
• Basic anatomy and physiology
• Medical terminology
• Cultural competency
• Note-taking and memorization skills

The program includes 90 hours of class instruction, online coursework, and hands-on experience through a practicum with Salem Health’s Interpreter Team.

Getting Started

Register for a noncredit class following these instructions to obtain a K-number (Chemeketa ID number) and Chemeketa email by following these steps:

• Go to chemeketa.edu
• On top menu bar click “Admissions” and scroll to “How to Enroll” and click
• Scroll down to “Non-Credit Personal Enrichment” heading and click on “Personal Enrichment/Fun”
• Complete the form

Instructor

Maria Del Carmen Villa, Trainer
Certified Spanish-English healthcare interpreter with over 20 years of experience in hospital, clinical, and behavioral health settings. Award-winning interpreter and trainer, foundational member of Salem Health's Language Access Department, and passionate about advancing equity in healthcare communication.