The Construction Of Medical Interpreters' Knowledge Structure

The formula of knowledge requirements for interpreters is KI=KL+ EK+S(P+AP). In this formula, KI=Knowledge Required for an Interpreter, KL=Knowledge for languages, EK=Encyclopedic Knowledge, S(P+AP) = Professional Interpreting Skills and Artistic Presentation Skills.Practically, for interpreters without medical background, the lack of the medical knowledge structure constitutes the major problem for them when they take on medical interpreting tasks. This report, based on the formula of knowledge requirements for interpreters and the author's case studies on her medical interpreting practice at an international clinic in Guangzhou, will demonstrate the construction of knowledge structure for the author, an interpreter without medical background, during the whole process of medical interpreting practice, by introducing the formula: KMI= KL(MT+TC)+ EK(MK+RK)+S(P+AP). In this formula, KMI= Knowledge Required for a Medical Interpreter, MT=Medical Terminology, TC=Translation Competence, MK=Medical Knowledge. The author expects that this report can be an inspiration for interpreters who work in a similar environment.