Community Health Interpreter 1 or 2

Department:

Health and Human Services Union Affiliation:

AFSCME Work Schedule:

Monday -

Friday Hours Per Week:

40 This is a Grant-Funded Position. Community Health Interpreter 1 The Community Health Interpreter 1 is an employee of Tillamook County Health and Human Services Department (HHS); includes the Community Health Center which provides medical, behavioral, dental, services and integrated Tillamook County Public Health and Environmental Health programs and services. HHS is a dynamic department with a fast-paced environment serving diverse populations. This position may work in the primary care and/or public health sections of the department. Facilitates communication between patients who do not speak English and healthcare providers (and other HHS employees) by accurately interpreting medical, dental, behavioral health, & public health (including environmental health) orally, ensuring both parties fully understand the conversation while maintaining patient confidentiality and cultural sensitivity; this includes translating medical terminology and navigating nuances of language and cultural contexts within the healthcare setting. The Interpreter will ensure patient education information, both information, clinical, and financial, are available in the Spanish language. Distinguishing Characteristics This is a multi-level classification. Distinguishing characteristics are defined below. This is a 2-level classification; the Community Health Interpreter 1 is distinguished from the Community Health Interpreter 2 as follows: The Community Health Interpreter 1 is an entry-level position requiring proficiency in both English and Spanish and at least one year of experience working with non-English speaking populations. Employees in this role provide medical interpretation while developing their skills and knowledge in healthcare settings. They must pass a proficiency exam and work toward certification as a Qualified or Certified Medical Interpreter but are not yet required to have this credential. The Community Health Interpreter 2 is a more advanced position requiring certification as a Qualified or Certified Medical Interpreter and at least two years of experience in medical interpretation. Employees at this level meet the Oregon Health Authority's certification requirements and may qualify through a combination of education and experience. The Community Health Interpreter 2 also provides mentorship to the Community Health Interpreter 1 and may perform observations of their interpreting sessions as needed. Community Health Interpreter 2 The Community Health Interpreter 2 is an employee of Tillamook County Health and Human Services Department (HHS); includes the Community Health Center which provides medical, behavioral, dental, services and integrated Tillamook County Public Health and Environmental Health programs and services. HHS is a dynamic department with a fast-paced environment serving diverse populations. This position may work in the primary care and/or public health sections of the department. Facilitates communication between patients who do not speak English and healthcare providers (and other HHS employees) by accurately interpreting medical, dental, behavioral health, & public health (including environmental health) orally, ensuring both parties fully understand the conversation while maintaining patient confidentiality and cultural sensitivity; this includes translating medical terminology and navigating nuances of language and cultural contexts within the healthcare setting. The Interpreter will ensure patient education information, both information, clinical, and financial, are available in the Spanish language. Community Health Interpreter 1 Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities The individual in this role is expected to possess and exhibit the following knowledge, skills, and abilities. Knowledge Basic knowledge of medical interpretation, and proficiency in both languages (English and Spanish). Knowledge of departmental and organizational policies and procedures, and able to embrace and personify the mission of HHS. Skills Adequate written and verbal communication skills for communicating coherently and professionally with patients and co-workers. Abilities Ability to pass the required proficiency exam, to begin working towards certification as a qualified or certified medical interpreter. Ability to demonstrate personal integrity through punctuality, honesty, an ability to follow instructions, proper attention to detail in all work matters, and a willingness learn from others. Ability to take constructive criticism and apply it throughout their training towards certification, work as a team towards shared goals, take initiative, set priorities in accordance with the needs and mission of the clinic, multi-task, and problem solve in a fast-paced work environment. Ability to adapt to changing or stressful conditions, including unanticipated changes to working schedules or locations. Required Qualifications ( Minimum qualifications for this role) Education High School diploma, or equivalent. Experience One (1) year of experience working specifically with non-English speaking populations, customer service with diverse groups, culturally appropriate settings, office work, medical settings (including dental and behavioral health), etc. Certifications or Licenses Must be qualified or certified as a Medical Interpreter per Oregon Health Authorities Rules within one (1) year of hire. At time of appointment, must possess a valid Oregon driver's license and maintain an acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications N/A Other Qualifications Bilingual:

Spanish/English required. Must pass a pre-employment criminal history background investigation. Must not be listed in the Medicaid exclusion database. Must pass an OHA approved language proficiency test that evaluates verbal ability. Must already have or within 6 months of hire, complete and pass an OHA approved formal health care interpreter training of 60 hours or more, including 40 hours of observed medical interpretation. Community Health Interpreter 2 Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities The individual in this role is expected to possess and exhibit the following knowledge, skills, and abilities. Knowledge Advanced knowledge of medical interpretation, and proficiency in both languages (English and Spanish). Knowledge of departmental and organizational policies and procedures, and able to embrace and personify the mission of HHS. Skills Advanced written and verbal communication skills for communicating coherently and professionally with patients and co-workers. Abilities Ability to demonstrate personal integrity through punctuality, honesty, an ability to follow instructions, proper attention to detail in all work matters, and a willingness learn from others. An advanced ability to work independently, work as a team towards shared goals, take initiative, set priorities in accordance with the needs and mission of the clinic, multi-task, and problem solve in a fast-paced work environment. Ability to adapt to changing or stressful conditions, including unanticipated changes to working schedules or locations. Required Qualifications ( Minimum qualifications for this role) Education Associate's degree in a related field. Experience Two (2) years of experience working specifically with non-English speaking populations, customer service with diverse groups, culturally appropriate settings, office work, medical settings (including dental and behavioral health), etc. Experience includes working as a medical interpreter or working towards certification in a medical setting. OR A combination of experience and education equal to two (2) years (education can include training, classes, certifications, etc.) Certifications or Licenses Qualified or Certified as a Medical Interpreter per Oregon Health Authorities Rules. At time of appointment, must possess a valid Oregon driver's license and maintain an acceptable driving record.

Preferred Qualifications N/A Other Qualifications Bilingual:

Spanish/English required. Must pass a pre-employment criminal history background investigation. Must not be listed in the Medicaid exclusion database. Must have passed an OHA approved language proficiency test that evaluates verbal ability. Community Health Interpreter 1 Duties assigned to this classification include, but are not limited to, the following examples. Accurately interpret medical information between patients and healthcare providers, including diagnoses, treatment plans, instructions, questions, and concerns, using appropriate language and terminology for each party. Understand and respect cultural differences to ensure accurate interpretation while considering nuances in communication styles and beliefs. Maintain strict patient confidentiality by not disclosing any personal information discussed during medical encounters. Interpret in various modes depending on the situation, such as consecutive interpretation (speaking after the other person finishes), simultaneous interpretation (speaking at the same time), or sight translation. Have a comprehensive understanding of medical terminology in both the patient's language and English to accurately translate complex medical concepts. Identify potential communication barriers and advocate for the patient's needs by clarifying information or asking questions when necessary. Adhere to professional standards of conduct, including not providing medical advice or opinions, and disclosing any potential conflicts of interest. Performs additional duties as assigned. Community Health Interpreter 2 Duties assigned to this classification include, but are not limited to, the following examples. Accurately interpret medical information between patients and healthcare providers verbatim, including diagnoses, treatment plans, instructions, questions, and concerns, using appropriate language and terminology for each party. Understand and respect cultural differences to ensure accurate interpretation while considering nuances in communication styles and beliefs. Maintain strict patient confidentiality by not disclosing any personal information discussed during medical encounters. Interpret in various modes depending on the situation, such as consecutive interpretation (speaking after the other person finishes), simultaneous interpretation (speaking at the same time), or sight translation. Perform translations of written documents from English into the language for which the interpreter is certified in. Have a comprehensive understanding of medical terminology in both the patient's language and English to accurately translate complex medical concepts. Identify potential communication barriers and advocate for the patient's needs by clarifying information or asking questions when necessary. Adhere to professional standards of conduct, including not providing medical advice or opinions, and disclosing any potential conflicts of interest. Provide mentorship of CH Interpreter 1's and perform observations of interpreting sessions as required. Performs additional duties as assigned. Community Health Interpreter 1 Supervisory Responsibilities Supervision is not a function assigned to this role. Supervisory Controls The level of oversight and guidance the supervisor will provide this position. Works under close supervision, performing routine tasks independently based on past experience. Deviations from established practices are referred to the supervisor for guidance. Working Conditions Mental effort Usually, normal concentration and deadlines with occasional periods of sustained deadline pressure. Physical effort

Moderate:

The work requires some physical exertion, such as long periods of standing; walking over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities; or recurring lifting of moderately heavy items, such as tables, equipment, and medium-sized parts. The work may require specific but common, physical characteristics and abilities, such as above-average agility and dexterity. Work environment

Moderate Risks/Discomforts:

require special safety precautions, e.g., working around moving parts, carts, or machines; exposure to contagious diseases or irritant chemicals. Employees may be required to use protective clothing or gear, such as masks, gowns, coats, boots, goggles, gloves, or shields. Community Health Interpreter 2 Supervisory Responsibilities Acts in a lead capacity (does not formally supervise) to direct workflow or to mentor employees in the assigned department. Supervisory Controls The level of oversight and guidance the supervisor will provide this position. Works under general supervision with recurring tasks performed independently. The supervisor provides professional advice on non-routine matters, and periodic reviews are conducted to ensure adherence to expected results. Working Conditions Mental effort Usually, normal concentration and deadlines with occasional periods of sustained deadline pressure. Physical effort

Moderate:

The work requires some physical exertion, such as long periods of standing; walking over rough, uneven, or rocky surfaces; recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching, reaching, or similar activities; or recurring lifting of moderately heavy items, such as tables, equipment, and medium-sized parts. The work may require specific but common, physical characteristics and abilities, such as above-average agility and dexterity. Work environment

Moderate Risks/Discomforts:

require special safety precautions, e.g., working around moving parts, carts, or machines; exposure to contagious diseases or irritant chemicals. Employees may be required to use protective clothing or gear, such as masks, gowns, coats, boots, goggles, gloves, or shields.