Remote Interpreting (Video & Phone)

WLIW-150 Remote Interpreting (Video & Phone)

Hours: 30
Fee: $599
Instruction: Online/Distance

Program Description

Calling Interpreters of all Languages! If you speak a second language, you can work from home and make your own hours. There is a tremendous amount of work available for Remote Interpreters--both phone and video--throughout the country.  Offered in partnership with TransFluenci EDU, this 30-hour class meets twice a week.  Students will learn the ins and outs of remote interpreting which includes both video and over the phone (VRI and OPI).  Students will learn how to set up their offices and computers to accept assignments from a number of companies that are actively searching for interpreters of all languages. The class will cover Medical and Legal Standards of Practice, ethics, HIPAA and intense practice sessions and simulations using a variety of platforms on a wide variety of topics, such as Medical Encounters, Depositions, Unemployment Hearings, Educational Hearings and Meetings such as IEP meetings, and Due Process Hearings. In addition to intense classroom simulated practice, the instructor will provide advice on best practices, how to apply for assignments, and what to expect as compensation.

Our instructor, Catherine Bermudez Sanabria, is a Certified Medical Interpreter, (CCHI) and has worked as a medical interpreter at Baystate Medical Center for 10 years. Ms. Bermudez holds an MA in Education/ESL from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico. In addition to intense classroom simulated practice, Ms. Bermudez will provide advice on best practices, how to set up your home office, how to apply for assignments, and what to expect as compensation. 

 

Program Details

Prerequisites/Requirements

Students must provide a certificate of completion for a minimum of 40 hours of interpreter training or a letter from your employer confirming a minimum of 2 years’ experience as a working interpreter in any setting. Students must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Please register early as a brief telephone interview will be required before acceptance into the course.

Section D21

Days: Mondays and Wednesdays
Times: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Dates: November 1 - December 6, 2021

What You Need to Know to Become a Medical Interpreter
ISBN: 9780578411910

Books may be purchased on Amazon or other book vendors.

Refund Policy

Withdraw prior to the start of class* - 100% Refund
No Refunds will be given once class begins

In the absence of a written third party contractual agreement stating otherwise, all refunds will be issued to the student. Credit card payments will be refunded directly to the credit card if processed within thirty days of the payment.

Course Cancellation Policy

The STCC Workforce Training office reserves the right to cancel any course that does not meet minimum enrollment requirements.

Student Handbook Policies

As a participant in this program/course I understand that I am bound by all the rules, regulations, and policies of STCC as outlined in the Springfield Technical Community College Student Handbook.

We are excited and proud to announce that Catherine Bermudez Sanabria, Certified Medical Interpreter (CCHI) has worked as a medical interpreter in Massachusetts for 10 years at Baystate Medical Center. Ms. Bermudez has interpreted for hospitals and behavioral health and community agencies. She holds an MA in Education/ESL from the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico. Ms. Bermudez has a wide range of interpreting experience which include the following:

  • Due Process Hearings
  • Unemployment Hearings
  • Department of Social Services
  • IEP Meetings for the Springfield School Department
  • MassHealth Hearings 
  • Depositions
  • Immigration Hearings

How fluent do I need to be to take the course?
You need to be very fluent in both English and the second language. This is not a language course. It prepares the student for what they need to know to apply for work as a medical interpreter and to take the National Exam.

How do I know if I’m fluent enough?
Prior to the start of classes, you will be contacted by someone to arrange for a brief language evaluation which will take place by phone. If you do not pass the language evaluation you will receive a full refund.

Can I take the course in more than one language?
Although you may speak more than one foreign language, you may only take the course in one language as there will be development of medical terminology and role plays. You may tell any potential employer that you speak multiple languages and at that time they may choose to test you in any language. You will know the basic expectations that employers require of medical interpreters.

When I complete the course, will I be able to work?
Once you complete the course you will have a certificate of completion to show to any potential employer. Most employers require at least a 40-hour training class, although 60 hours is much preferred. 

Do I have to have National Certification to apply for work?
No. Employers show preference for National Certification, but they mainly want to see at least 40 hours or more of training. The student can then work towards National Certification.  Many times employers will pay the National Certification fees.

Is the course conducted in multiple languages?
No. The course is conducted in English.

What does the course cover?
The course covers the standards of practice, HIPAA, cultural competency, ethical dilemmas, development of medical terminology and student/patient/doctor role plays. 

For questions or interest in our current or future programs, please complete our Workforce Development Program Inquiry Form, and one of our Recruitment and Retention Specialists will contact you promptly. For all other questions, please use the contact below.

The STCC Workforce Development Center
Building 27, Second Floor

Enrollment Process

Enroll Online

  1. Review the Prerequisites/Requirements above.
  2. Click the Enroll Now button below.
  3. Click the "Select" button next to your desired section. A window appears.
  4. Click "Add Section to Cart". A success message appears.
  5. Click the "Next" button in the top right corner.
  6. Enter your personal information.
  7. Click the "Submit" button.

Enroll Now

Enroll in Person

Go to Building 27, 2nd floor to register for the course or call (413) 755-4225.