- HOME
- ABOUT US
- GET STARTED
- Getting Prepared
- Step 1 - Registration
- Step 2 - Written Exam/Hub-CMI & CMI
- Step 3 - Oral Exam/CMI
- RENEWAL
- WEBINAR
- GET INVOLVED
- CONTACT US
- NBCMI Programs
|
FALL 2022 | ISSUE 6
A Message From Past Chair Xiomara Armas BSBA CMI-Spanish
Time flies so fast and never sims to slow down. I remember awaiting anxiously my 15th birthday, what seemed an eternity. Then, my first job, my first car, getting married. In the blink of an eye, my babies are grownups now. Where has the time gone? Progression of time is inevitable, and behind that progression, there are always memories, happy moments, milestones, and live events, tears of joy or sorrow. Nevertheless, I am grateful for everything in my life, for all the blessings I have received and every memory I have cherished. Now my time with the NBCMI is up. As I reflect on my years on The Board, I meditate on the growth of our Interpreter's community and our profession. Specialization and technology are taking over: education, legal, medical, meetings, conference, law enforcement, finance, science, remote interpreting, and telehealth. Much has changed in our profession as COVID has changed forever the way we work, and technology instead of replacing Interpreters and translators has helped improve our performance and diverse opportunities. The number of people employed in the translation and interpretation industry has doubled in the past seven years. However, the best is yet to come: "Employment of interpreters and translators is projected to grow 24 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations" (*), and the NBCMI will continue supporting the growth and recognition of our hard-working community through our programs and certification. During my time at the National Board, we have proudly celebrated our 10th anniversary in 2019, an amazing milestone of dedication to our community. In May 2020 the Hub CMI program was born, a credential available to all languages. In the last 3 years, we have launched successful Scholarships programs awarding 15 CMIs in total. In partnership with MiTio, 25 scholarships for the 60-hour Medical Interpreter Training Course were awarded in 2022: 10 scholarships for the Hub-CMI and 15 for the CMI credentials. Most importantly, I've had the opportunity to meet many of you, exceptional professionals, in conferences and meetings, and discuss your concerns, hopes, fears, and dreams. We have walked together the darkest times of COVID-19, as well as other sad times in this nation's history, witnessing many inspiring acts of empathy, connection and total dedication. Stories that talk about the resilient and brave community we have the honor to represent, which has been the jewel on my journey. Thank you for your trust and confidence. Rest assured that the National Board takes very seriously our community's opinion to support legal changes, incorporate them in our plans and projects, to assist, promote and protect your interest in professionalism. I am fortunate to have also the opportunity to work with such talented professionals, Directors of the National Board. Our Board muster community and industry leaders with expertise in a wide range of areas, including training, advocacy, education, law, program development, and business management. I'm proud to say that I've learned and I've grown so much, personally and professionally working alongside my colleagues. My deepest appreciation for our staff team, which is by far the champions of our organization, their dedication, and loyalty to our mission is admirable. I will miss you all immensely. Finally, the time has arrived to pass the torch to a new Chair with divergent thinking, perspective, receptive, and with a great sense of humor to maintain a vibrant NBCMI for many years to come. I am pleased to announce that the NBCMI has elected Gustavo Negrete, as the new Chair, effective July 1, 2022. Gustavo brings a wealth of experience to his new role of providing strategic leadership in the planning and implementation of quality-based, integrated programs. As a former NB Secretary and with great experience in the industry, Gustavo is a mission-driven leader focused on strategic planning, disciplined direction management, and a culture of ownership. Please join me to Welcome Gustavo Negrete, Chair of the NBCMI. Wishing all stakeholders, NB Directors and staff all the best always. Xiomara Armas, BSBA, CMI Spanish
How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard
;
- Winnie the Pooh
To Our Dear Xiomara, The Board wishes you all the best in your future endeavors, as we are sure you will enrich any new project you touch. We thank you for all of your dedication and leadership as the Chair for the National Board of Certification for Medical Interpreters. We can truly say that we are better thanks to your work, dedication, and leadership. We are inspired to carry on with the good work to ensure that our Limited English Proficient patient populations receive the healthcare they need in their language to ensure safety and positive patient outcomes. Xiomara, you have laid out a most sturdy foundation for us to build on and for that we are eternally grateful.
Here are some interesting news articles that you may find interesting and helpful.
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2022/07/15/1111316589/988-suicidehotline-number A U.S. judge found Cleveland Clinic in contempt of court for refusing to provide interpreters to deaf people like Seminole Ridge teacher Rose Adams. "I felt like an animal': Deaf woman wins suit against hospital for refusing to provide interpreter"
On June 24th 2022, the U.S. Supreme court overturned Roe v. Wade, which till the overturning, was the basis for establishing a constitutional right to abortion. Regardless of which side of the debate one may stand on, as interpreters, this ruling will undoubtedly affect the medical encounters for which we interpret. Conversations will change, and at the very least, there will be a sense of uncertainty and fear when touching the subject of termination of a pregnancy. As professional interpreters in healthcare, we are certain that all of you possess the training and professional judgement to conduct an excellent interpretation. However, know that interpreter leaders understand any feeling of confusion, doubt, uncertainty, fear, and anger any of you may feel regarding this subject. Taking time to processing these feelings and new information is valid.
Where Have We Been?
Meet Our New Directors
The Board of Directors of The National Board of Certification For Medical Interpreters would like to extend a warm welcome to our newest members. We are excited for the work ahead and all of the new ideas our new members bring. With its new members, The Board also rededicates itself to:
The Board of Directors remains committed to our purpose and to the mission of The NBCMI. Please join us in welcoming our new directors. You can read their full biographies on our site. |
Justice Department and HHS Issue Guidance on Nondiscrimination in Telehealth the Week of the 32nd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act
The new 988 mental health hotline is live. Here's what to know.
