The course is a 40-hour professional development program that prepares bilingual individuals
to work as a medical interpreter. It is used to train novice as well as experienced medical
interpreters, and is often a pre-prerequisite for employment as a professional interpreter
throughout the United States as well as worldwide. Some places such as the University of
Michigan Health System will start requiring BTG certification in a mandatory basis for all
interpreters working in their system.
Course Content
Basic Interpreting Skills:
- The Role of the Interpreter
- NCIHC Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice
- Managing the Flow of the Session
- Conduit and Clarifier Interpreter
Health Care Information:
- Introduction to the US Health Care System
- Anatomy Study
- Basic Health Care procedures
Culture and Interpreting:
- Self-awareness
- Characteristic of Cultures
- Traditional Health Care in Communities
- Cultural Brokering
Professional Development:
- Effective Communication
- Professional Conduct in the Medical Setting
- Self-care and resources for professional growth
