The mole

I'm inclined to think no one wants to be considered the mole in their organization. Sometimes, however, this "title"​ falls on people inadvertently.  Consider the role of the interpreter.  If we're doing our job well, we'll go through our session seemingly unnoticed, partaking in the provider's and client's conversation only when deemed absolutely necessary. And yet, we're ever so present watching every move made, listening to every word, understanding every meaning, analyzing, taking notes, rendering and..."Did that just happen?". Granted, we're absolutely bounded by HIPAA but what happens when there's a flaw in the system and you've just been a witness to it? What do you do when over and over again you notice that things aren't being done according to procedure or misinformation is continuously being shared with the client? 

As interpreters, especially if you've been a part of an organization for a number of years, we get very familiarized with a department's procedures, paperwork process and/or systems. Often times, because of how many times we've gone through the process as interpreters, we could probably (verbally) offer the service better than the provider. And so, when something goes astray, we immediately catch it; we see it and when it happens too often; we report it. Or do we?

I've honestly found myself in many situations in which I've had to report back to my supervisor mishaps in policies. Because of the variety of settings we're in, we're able to see connections and where, if, they falter. There's been cases of state exams being inappropriately administered, information being relayed inaccurately during a meeting and so forth.  I tend to think these aren't deliberate actions, but rather, areas in need of growth (after the face palm. I am human after all).

No one wants to be deemed "the mole" in their organization but we all want to do what's right (right?). Bringing forth information (not violating HIPAA law) that you know, should it continue, could harm the organization you work for and ultimately those you service, shouldn't make you feel like a mole. Rather, think of it as being an observer and only bringing forth what your heart knows isn't right.