Medical Interpreters Improving Health for Patients, One Conversation at a Time

Explore the impactful work of Centro Hispano de East Tennessee, an organization dedicated to empowering the growing Latino community in Knoxville through education, workforce development, and essential services.

In this video, you'll hear from young interpreters who are breaking down language barriers in healthcare, ensuring that Latino patients receive accurate diagnoses and effective treatment. Learn how the Medical Interpreter Program was born out of necessity and how it is transforming lives by providing critical language services and fostering a sense of belonging.

Key Highlights:

• The challenges faced by the Latino community in East Tennessee, particularly in accessing healthcare services.
• The inspiring journey of young interpreters who have turned personal experiences into professional skills.
• The impact of Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity, which provided $186,000 to Centro Hispano de East Tennessee to launch the Medical Interpreter Program.
• Personal stories of resilience and determination from those who fled difficult circumstances in search of safety and a better life.
• The importance of cultural integration and the celebration of Latinidad in enriching the community.

About Centro Hispano de East Tennessee: For the past 16 years, Centro Hispano has been a cornerstone for the Latino population in Knoxville, providing resources such as legal counsel, healthcare, and housing. Their new Medical Interpreter Program, funded by Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity, is a testament to their commitment to addressing health inequities and supporting their community.

About Direct Relief’s Fund for Health Equity: The Fund aims to increase access to healthcare and improve health outcomes for marginalized communities by supporting organizations with deep community ties. By diversifying the healthcare workforce and addressing social determinants of health, the Fund is making healthcare more accessible and reliable.

Watch this video to:

• Understand the importance of language services in healthcare.
• Be inspired by the stories of young interpreters making a difference.
• Learn about the vital role of community organizations in promoting health equity.

For more about Direct Relief's work, visit https://www.directrelief.org