Health In Translation: BIFMC Has One of the Few Clinically Certified Interpreters in SC October 2, 2018

BIFMC Charge Nurse, Julia Sachs, who is currently one of the few clinically certified medical interpreters in the state of South Carolina, which requires ongoing testing.

At Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic, approximately 30% of patients are ‘Limited English Speakers’; primarily Spanish-speaking adults who live or work on Johns, James or Wadmalaw Islands. Many of the Spanish-speaking patients treated at the free clinic work in construction, landscaping, house cleaning, the food and beverage industry and hospitality; as well as those who are working in the area for a limited time as migrant farmworkers. Fortunately, the clinic is able to provide interpreting services for patients, including both in-person and telephone services as necessary.

BIFMC Charge Nurse, Julia Sachs, is a certified medical interpreter who has gained trust among the robust Spanish-speaking population at the clinic. She is one of the only clinically certified interpreters in the state of South Carolina, a certification valid for 5 years, renewed only by completion of continuing education credits. To achieve certification, a candidate must demonstrate proof of being fluent in two languages; have completed at least 40 hours of medical interpreter training; and then must pass a two part certification exam, including questions on medical terminology, professional ethics, legal issues, and provider and patient management, as well as an oral exam.

Sach’s ability to interpret between the patient and physician – as well as her compassion – has been an invaluable tool to expand BIFMC’s volunteer medical services to the diverse population of the islands. Now, with the expansion of the new 7 exam room medical clinic, Sachs hopes to continue to increase the Spanish-speaking patient population, attracting more adults from the local community without health insurance, by word of mouth – calling upon current patients and business owners within Charleston’s Latino community to help spread the word that medical care is available.

“Among our Spanish speaking population, the best way to reach them is word of mouth,” Sachs explains. “Actually knowing someone who has been treated at the clinic goes farther than simply hearing about it through the media. Cultivating trust and confidence in our services takes time and a personal approach.”

You can help spread our mission to the local Latino community by sharing our “Espanol” information page.

Barrier Islands Free Medical Clinic is a free clinic in Charleston, SC, that provides free medical care to eligible patients, just like any family practitioner or internist. The Free Clinic serves uninsured adults living at or below 200 % of the Federal poverty level who live or work on Johns, Wadmalaw or James Islands. You can follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.