1. What does KITA provide for medical interpreter training?
KITA provides a 64-hour class called Core Medical Interpreter Training (CMIT). For more info, email kitavista@gmail.com to ask about our next class..
2. How is this class set up?
You can expect to spend 4 days in class (on the weekends) and to spend 32 hours on an online component. You will have access to the online component for approximately 2-3 weeks. You must commit to this schedule in order to earn the certificate. Should unforeseen circumstances occur you can complete the requirements during our next class.
3. Where is this training offered?
This training is regularly offered in Lexington, KY.
4. When is this training offered?
KITA offers this class 2-3 times per year in Lexington, KY.
5. What is the cost of this program?
KITA/CMIT requires language proficiency in English and one target language. This can be proven through diplomas and third-party language testing. Language testing costs range from $37 to $145 depending on the language. The cost of the class is $600 and includes the textbook, workbook, certificate upon completion and access to the CMIT online modules.
6. What is the passing score of the language assessment?
If you haven’t earned diplomas that can prove your language proficiency in English and one target language you will be asked to take a third-party language exam. Depending on the exam, a passing score is ILR 2+ or 75%.
7. How will the language assessment be set up?
Depending on the language to be tested, we will either send you a link to set up your own test or send you an invoice so that we can schedule the test for you.
8. What happens after I pass the language assessment?
If you have set up your own language test, send the results to kitavista@gmail.com. If we set up the test for you we will email you the results. As long as you have a passing score as explained above we will send you a link to pay for the CMIT.
9. Can I take the language assessment in more than one target language?
Yes. If you are willing and able to pay for additional assessments.
10. How can I pay for the CMIT?
Preference is via credit or debit card, but contact us if you need to make other arrangements. We do not offer payment plans at this time. Full payment must be made prior to attending the class.
11. Does KITA offer any financial assistance for this training?
KITA wishes to support the aspiring interpreter whenever possible. We are sometimes able to offer partial scholarships when funds/grants allow.
12. Will I be a certified interpreter after taking this course?
No. Through the CMIT (and all other such courses 40 hours or more) you will earn a CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE. This, along with the language assessment, will make you a minimally qualified medical interpreter in the language(s) in which you were assessed. During this training you will learn the process of becoming a nationally certified medical interpreter.
13. Will I be able to interpret in other venues after receiving this training?
This training will prepare you to interpret in medical settings. You will also be able to use this training in social services and educational settings. You will NOT be qualified to interpreter in legal/court settings. If you are interested in becoming a court interpreter for the state of Kentucky, click here.
14. Can I be put on a waiting list for future CMITs?
Yes. Email kitavista@gmail.com with your name, languages you speak and phone number. We will contact you when we plan the next CMIT.
15 . Why get medical interpreter training?
For the safety of patients and to comply with federal law requiring that medical interpreters be qualified, it is for the benefit of all that, if you provide interpreter services, that you are a trained and qualified professional. Also, in many cases, you can get paid more for your services.
16. What kind of work can I expect to do as a qualified interpreter?
Full time interpreter jobs with benefits are still rare, but should one become available you will have the minimum training required to apply for the position. In the meantime, you can most likely work for various agencies as well as for the public schools as a contractor. In order to be successful you will need reliable transportation and good availability. You might also be able to find contract work in the evenings and weekends.
