About Maru Connects
Background
- I have been a Spanish Interpreter for 30 years, a medical interpreter since 2009, and a Certified Healthcare Interpreter in Spanish (CHI) since 2012.
- I have lived and worked in Mexico and the United States all my life. I began tutoring English and Spanish at 21 while pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees in art history.
I have been a full-time medical interpreter for:
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Mayo Clinic, Phoenix AZ
- Dell Children's Hospital, Austin TX
Work done independently through language companies include:
- 10 years of all aspects of resettlement of refugees
- 1,000 cases of work with Child Protection Services
- Interpretation during forensic intakes, interviews, and examinations of abuse of minors and adults
- Lengthy in-home interpretations of families with children of special needs on behalf of the state program Star Kids
Framework for a Certified Healthcare Interpreter
I conduct myself by ethical principals.
I guide my work on the National Council for Interpretation in Health Care. The Standards of Practice provide the essential outline of a true professional. Noteworthy examples are: accuracy, confidentiality, respect, and impartiality.
Internally, my main drivers are compassion and excellence; yes, they can coexist!
A Simple Process
- I receive a text or email with the proposed assignment.
- If available, and in agreement, we sign a simple contract.
- My fee is $120 per hour with a two-hour minimum.
- If the assignment is more than 20 miles from Carr Mill Mall in Carrboro, the fee is $150 per hour with a two-hour minimum, plus mileage as per the going rate.
- Cancellations within 24 hours will require one hour payment.
- No-shows or cancellations upon arrival will require full payment.
Testimonials
“Maru is one of those special people. She makes amazing connections with patients and their families, stepping into the situation with extraordinary compassion, reaching them in a professional but personal way that earns their trust.” Dr. Johnathan Heath, UNC Health