To be a medical interpreter is mentally demanding. Few people are willing to take on the task, while hospitals see them merely as helpers.

Tough job

I never quite understand how poorly interpreters are treated in Japan. We saw the quote/issue from July 21 here on JT about court interpreters and now this? I understand in many countries interpreting is a highly respected profession, why isn't this the case in Japan? The last thing anyone needs is an amateur/volunteer making a mistake and causing god knows what damage in any given situation. Only professionals should be doing this kind of work and they should be fairly compensated for their work.