Face-to-Face Interpreting

Screening Process

Once an interpreter is employed by IEC, they are screened for the following:

• Comprehensible understanding and speaking of English. This is to promote smooth interpreting.
• Testing for medical terminology and cultural nuances. Extensive written and oral tests are administered. An Interpreter must go through intensive testing for medical terminology. Once they have passed the tests they are then certified as an IEC Interpreter. We test our interpreters to ascertain their ability to interpret while at the various departments at different hospitals. Their comfort and ease with medical terminology and cultural nuances is our first priority. This ensures an accurate interpretation while on assignment.
• We have ongoing testing of medical terminology. We have a resource center where an Interpreter can call IEC and research any word that eludes them or any new medical terminology that is out there that needs to be incorporated into our bank of information. We continually update our database of medical terminology. The hotline helps the interpreters stay up-to-date on any new terminology and acts as a backup support system.
• Job Protocols. We want our Interpreters to represent us in the most efficient and professional manner. They are tested for "on the job protocols." For example: Checking-in once they have arrived at the hospital; If the doctor has not yet arrived, should the Interpreter introduce him/herself to the patient? Where to remain while waiting for the doctor to arrive; Checking-out; Prior to leaving, does the patient require further interpretation to go to the pharmacy? Once they have completed "Job Protocols," an interpreter is now ready to successfully handle any situation that should arise while on assignment.
• Upon completion of the Interpreter Screening Process an Interpreter is issued an ID badge.
• IEC is a member of CHIA (California Healthcare Interpreters Association), and all our interpreters adhere to its standards.

Additional training for interpreters in various fields:

• Mental Health
• Emergency Services (911, Fire, Police, Sheriff, etc)

Whenever a Department enrolls in our program, we will train the interpreters in the terminology and situations typical to that Department's need.

Handling Emergency Situations

All interpreters are trained to deal with emergency situations, and to be able to speak in a calm and soothing manner in order to get the right information as quickly as possible.

Background of our Interpreters

All Interpreters must have 5 years prior experience before being employed as an IEC Interpreter.

Types of Interpreting:

• Consecutive Interpreting
• Simultaneous Interpreting