Medical translation requires excellence in language and an understanding of a wide range of subjects, specialties and new developments. I like the challenge of keeping current on scientific developments and find medical translation one of the most enjoyable aspects of my practice.
These days, medical translation can easily spill over into portions involving medical devices, electronics, sophisticated testing equipment. At the same time, it touches on the most basic kinds of human thinking and action. Bringing these together while remaining mindful of the cultural differences that run through the medical establishments of different countries makes medical translation an endlessly interesting area.
I did spend a couple of years in med school, but not as a student. I was an Associate Professor at Taipei Medical University, teaching English and Spanish. I had great opportunities while there to interact with faculty and students and interpret and translate materials and meetings for the medical school and its affiliated hospital.