Bridging the Gap (BTG)
Medical Interpreter Training

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Bridging the Gap (BTG) is a nationally recognized 40-hour medical interpreter training program developed by the Cross Cultural Health Care Program (CCHCP). Established in 1992, BTG provides bilingual individuals with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to begin working professionally as healthcare interpreters.

The program combines interpreting theory with hands-on practice, helping participants develop a professional framework for making appropriate decisions in real-world healthcare encounters.

What You'll Learn

Throughout the 40-hour program, participants develop skills in:

  • Interpreter roles, ethics & professional boundaries

  • Modes of interpreting & interpreting techniques

  • Managing the flow of an interpreted encounter

  • Clarification, memory development & sight translation

  • Medical terminology, anatomy & common healthcare procedures

  • Cultural awareness & navigating cultural differences

  • The U.S. healthcare system

  • Advocacy and patient autonomy

  • Professional conduct & interpreter self-care

  • Telephonic & video remote interpreting

  • Career pathways & professional growth

BTG emphasizes practical application through interactive exercises, case scenarios and role plays, allowing participants to practice making the types of decisions professional interpreters encounter in healthcare settings.

Participants who successfully complete the program and final assessment receive an official 40-hour Bridging the Gap Certificate of Completion.

  • Participants must:

    • Be at least 18 years old

    • Have a high school diploma or equivalent

    • Be proficient in English and at least one other language

    • Successfully complete a language proficiency assessment before beginning the course

  • No previous interpreting experience is required.

  • Bridging the Gap is a 40-hour live training program.

    InterpretEd offers courses in different scheduling formats throughout the year, including intensive weekend cohorts and other schedules based on enrollment.

    Visit our registration page to see upcoming course dates.

  • Yes. InterpretEd's BTG courses are offered live online with an instructor.

    This is not a self-paced or prerecorded course. Students participate in real-time instruction, discussions, exercises, role plays, and interpreting practice.

    In-Person courses may be available through the year.

  • BTG instruction is conducted in English.

    Participants may speak many different languages, but students must be proficient in both English and the language they intend to interpret.

  • Start by completing the BTG Interest Form.

    After we receive your information, InterpretEd will provide the next steps for language proficiency verification, payment, and enrollment in an upcoming cohort.

  • No. While BTG focuses on healthcare interpreting, the skills learned provide a strong foundation for community, social services, and other interpreting settings.

  • No. Your Bridging the Gap Certificate of Completion does not expire. Interpreters are encouraged to continue their professional development through ongoing education and training.

Frequently Asked Questions

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