Hospital Director of Interpreter and Translation Services

Oversees language access programs to ensure effective communication with patients who have limited English proficiency (LEP) or are deaf or hard of hearing. This role involves managing a team of interpreters and translators, coordinating language services, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

Responsibilities:

Language Access Plan Management:

Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive language access strategic plan.
Ensure compliance with The Joint Commission, CMS, and requirements for other accrediting bodies related to interpreter and translations services.
Maintain a database of qualified interpreters and translators.
Coordinate and manage requests for interpretation and translation services.
Allocate budget resources for language assistance services.

Staff Training and Education:

Train hospital staff on how to utilize language assistance services when serving patients.
Provide ongoing education to staff regarding cultural competence and effective communication with LEP patients.
Collaborate with clinical departments to integrate language services into patient care workflows.

Quality Assurance and Monitoring:

Monitor interpreter and translator performance.
Evaluate the effectiveness of language services.
Address any issues related to communication barriers promptly.

Collaboration:

Work closely with clinical teams, patient advocates, and administrative staff.
Collaborate with community organizations to enhance language access services.

Policy Development:

Develop and update policies and procedures related to interpreter and translation services.
Ensure alignment with regulatory standards and best practices.

Financial Management, Reporting, and Documentation:

Maintain accurate records of language services provided.
Prepare reports for hospital leadership and regulatory agencies.
Develop and oversee department budget, vendor contracts, and financial performance/billing services.

Health Literacy:

Translate documents, videos, media, etc., for departments and/or outsource to vendors as needed.

Mininum Qualifications (Must have):

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., linguistics, healthcare administration), master’s preferred.
7-10 years of program management and operational expereince. 
Certification as a medical interpreter (e.g., CMI, CHI) preferred.
Fluency in English and at least one other relevant language.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Experience with translation.
Good knowledge of medical terminology.
Excellent verbal communication skills.