HAP provides medical interpreters to assist volunteer physicians in communicating with non-English speaking HAP patients. Interpreting is provided by HAP staff, volunteer interpreters and contracted interpreters. All interpreters are tested for language proficiency and receive medical interpreter training.

View tips for providers on how to work with medical interpreters.

Volunteer Interpreters
The Health Access Project utilizes bilingual volunteers to interpret for medical appointments. Volunteers receive an orientation to Medical Interpretation and are assessed in language proficiency. The minimum requirement for volunteer interpreters is 1 appointment a month for 6 months. Most volunteer medical interpreters love the challenge and commit for a year or more. It is especially rewarding for volunteers who are currently involved in or are planning to study Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy or to be a Physician Assistant. For more information please call Rene Zepeda at (801) 412-3988 or email rzepeda@healthaccessproject.org.

View the code of ethics for interpreters.

Quotes from HAP Volunteer Medical Interpreters

" As a medical student and interpreter, I get to see how empowering this program is to both patients and physicians. It lays the foundation for good health care relationships and gives patients control and understanding in their health care decisions. HAP also sends a message to other members of the community to be aware of language barriers and take steps to combat them."   - Alison Schiffern, Volunteer Medical Interpreter “Its a great feeling knowing that you helped someone and made a difference.”   - Paola Gutierrez, Volunteer Medical Interpreter “ Interpreting is fun because I get to help people, practice my language skills, and meet a great, diverse group of people.”   -Randy Clark, Volunteer Medical Interpreter