any experience volunteering as an interpreter in hospital?

well I worked as an ER volunteer at the Children's hospital oakland, but helping out as a translator/interpreter was a part of my job since i speak spanish...It was a good experience because improves your communication skills and people skills, which is a great thing to improve on

Javi

 

i would do it...i've been an interpreter for 3 years and have witnessed so much that doctors do. plus, the direct doctor and patient contact gives you a real perspective from both sides--it's awesome.

 

I was also a ER volunteer. I feel that acting as an interpreter was the most meaningful part of the experience. It gave many opportunities to observe patient-physician interaction and probably the best way that volunteers can help patients. They are always grateful that they don't have to wait for a hospital interpreter (which may mean hours before they can be treated).

 

I volunteered as a translator in a free clinic (I also did patient intake). I'm sure a lot of you have heard me say this before, but it was a WONDERFUL experience. I ended up writing my personal statement about it. Communication is a bigger part of becoming a physician than some people realize. You see both the patient's and the doctor's point of view, which is an unusual perspective. DO IT! Por favor!