Bilingual Medical Interpreter & Pet Care Advocate

Maria Teresa Velez Bennazar

My name is Maria Teresa Velez Bennazar, and I am a bilingual professional based in DeLand, Florida, with a strong background in communication, customer service, and medical interpretation. I am fluent in both Spanish and English and passionate about helping people communicate clearly, especially in situations where understanding is critical.

For the past year, I have worked as a Spanish–English medical interpreter, assisting healthcare professionals and Spanish-speaking patients in communicating effectively. I focus on ensuring that patients clearly understand medical information, diagnoses, treatment plans, and instructions so they can make informed decisions about their health. I approach every interaction with accuracy, empathy, professionalism, and a strong commitment to confidentiality.

Prior to medical interpretation, I worked for several years as a Patient Care Technician and Home Health Aide at AdventHealth, where I assisted patients with daily living activities, provided direct care, and supported nursing staff in maintaining a safe and comfortable environment. These roles allowed me to develop hands-on healthcare experience, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to respond effectively to patient needs.

Before that, I spent ten years in customer service at the Orlando International Airport with internationally recognized car rental companies, including Alamo Rent A Car, National Car Rental, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car. From 2007 through 2017, I assisted travelers from around the world in a fast-paced, multicultural environment, which strengthened my communication, problem-solving, and customer service skills.

I completed my General Educational Development (GED) in 1981 at Eugenio María de Hostos in Puerto Rico. Throughout my career, I have been committed to helping others, building trust, and creating positive experiences through clear communication and dedicated service.

I am eager to continue growing in the field of medical interpretation, using my bilingual skills, healthcare experience, and professional background to bridge language barriers, support healthcare providers, and ensure that every patient receives understanding and respect.