19 June, 2012

Professional Organizations

Many professions have professional organizations that they subscribe to in order to network with others in their field. These organizations are membership based and run. They are a source of forums, conventions, seminars and workshops.  Some of the most popular are the American Medical Association, the Bar Association and alike. Membership in these organizations is vital for professionals to stay connected and informed of industry nuances, technologies, and statutory changes.

Medical Interpreters have several organizations that they can subscribe to.  The two most popular are the International Medical Interpreters Association and the National Council on Interpreting in Health Care. Both are very good organizations for interpreters to stay in tune with industry changes.  Also, they are who an interpreter would contact to attain national interpreter certification testing.

Both organizations have websites with loads of information and have annual conventions. At these conventions one can participate in workshops, meetings, and more.  You can sign up for membership online and take advantage of all they have to offer.  If you really want to get involved you can even join a committee or run for a position on their board of directors.

If you are a Medical Interpreter it is recommended that you join one of these professional organizations.  Get involved in what is going on in the field of Medical Interpreting.  Offer your ideas and thoughts and help influence positive change in our industry.