Augusta University Health bridges language gap with medical interpreter training

More than 63 million Americans speak a language other than English in the home, according to a recent report from the United States Census. As our nation becomes more diverse, there is a growing need for health care providers to be more skilled in supporting patients with distinct cultural and linguistic needs.

In an effort to provide high-quality care to all patients, Augusta University Health will host its 2019 Bridging the Gap medical interpreters training on Oct. 14, 16, 21, 23 and 25. Workshops include a rigorous curriculum covering an array of topics, including cultural competency, the guide to common medications and interpreting logistics.

“Augusta University Health embraces the uniqueness of our patients, and this training is just another way we are ensuring patients receive appropriate care, culturally and linguistically,” said Vivian Rice, manager of Interpreter and Translation Services at AU Health.

The training is open to the public, and participants must attend each session and pass a written final exam to earn a certificate. The course fee is $800, which includes the cost of course materials, tuition and the nonrefundable language assessment fee.

AU Health is licensed by the nationally recognized Cross Cultural Health Care Program, a nonprofit training and consulting organization founded in 1992. For more information, call 706-721-6929.