An Update on Certification for Medical Interpreters

Written by:  Louis Provenzano, Language Line Services, President and Chief Operating Officer

As we embark upon a new year and a new decade, we have ample reason for joyful reflection. Indeed, despite many challenges and global economical hardships, we started out the year standing on the edge of history with a commitment to the evolution of certification for medical interpreters. Our profession has since achieved major milestones through that commitment that will forever have a positive impact for interpreters, providers and the limited English proficient patients and families we serve thanks to the hard work, passion and devotion of many.

I would like to pause and extend my personal gratitude to our partners in this effort, the International Medical Interpreting Association (IMIA) as well as the members of the Global Advisory Council, PSI the leading testing company, our internal team focused on medical certification, our academic testing and training arm, Language Line University, and last but not least, all who were involved in bringing to fruition the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters.

 I also would like to thank both the IMIA and the Nebraska Association of Translators and Interpreters (NATI) for bestowing awards to Language Line Services for our contributions to the industry in 2009. On behalf of all at our company, we in turn recognize and thank the great work and contributions of many organizations, associations and individuals throughout this past year.

 2009 was a year of outstanding growth and tangible results, as well as new beginnings and relationships. From our company’s valued collaboration with IMIA, to the 100+ organizations and individuals that joined us last May 1^st at the 3^rd Annual Forum for National Medical Interpreter Certification. From the lobbying and advocacy work done in Washington D.C. to the formation of the certifying body, the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters, and the support and amazing work of the interpreter associations and individual contributions from the 1500+ interpreters and other stakeholders that participated in the National Job Analyses Survey.  From the expertise of participants in the surveys and focus groups, to the individuals and organizations that came forward to participate in the pilot, an effort which provided results used to inform the most profound accomplishment of all – the realization of national certification for medical interpreters – the first ever national certification for interpreters in the U.S.  

 Indeed, we do have great cause to celebrate. But we have even more to look forward to as we realize the implementation of national certification. In fact, I’m thrilled to learn there are interpreters (some independent, some working for hospitals and some employed with language service providers) scheduled to take the test to become nationally certified.  In fact, the very first interpreter has already taken and passed the test!

 To kick off the New Year, you will see our momentum continue to grow.  The next phase of the job analysis survey – the international version – is rapidly unfolding following the successful implementation of the U.S. version.

 Also, formal registration for the 4^th Annual May 1^st Forum on National Medical Interpreter Certification in Washington DC is now open! This provides an opportunity to not only attend this free stakeholder forum – but this year, you can also join us for a rally on the steps of the U.S. Capital where we will come together and march to support certification and reimbursement for the important services certified interpreters deliver.

 We will soon begin to realize the fruits of our labor and investment in the Certification campaign put forth this year as more and more interpreters are registered to take the test and become nationally certified. We will continue to call for unity with all similarly-minded groups to work together for reimbursement of professional interpreter utilization and professionalizing the industry. 

On a personal note, I invite our customers, stakeholders, friends, colleagues and, the heart and soul of our profession, the interpreters, to reach out and share with me (www.louisprovenzano.com) your perspective on what is important for you to achieve in 2010.  I commit to all of you that I will reflect, listen, and hear you, the collective voice of our industry and profession. Your insight is welcome and will give us, as the leader of the industry and the vanguard of many progressive changes, the opportunity to define and redefine ourselves to better support you and the ever-changing needs of the industry.

We do not fear change or controversy because we know that these things are often necessary to improve and evolve the status quo.  Change is needed to deliver the quality assurance and dependability of services that you and your patients deserve.

I shared with you last year a personal note about what I find wonderful about a New Year; that it looks both backward and forward – where we have been, where we are and where we are going. We are truly grateful to have so much good to look back on and so much excitement to anticipate.

2009 was a colossal year for the advancement of National Certification. We are equally excited and energized as we look to what lies ahead in 2010. I offer you my personal assurance that my commitment, passion and energy to provide unsurpassed, uncompromised results in quality and service will continue!

My wish to all our customers, partners, and to one another is that once again, we all have another standout year and a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year!

Sincerely,

Louis F. Provenzano, Jr.

President and COO

Language Line Services