video remote interpreting

Video Remote Interpreting is a Necessary Tool for Fast Pace Hospital Settings:

When a language barrier is faced in hospital settings, having quick access to a professional interpreter can aid in saving a limited English proficient (LEP) patients life. In the event of an emergency there is no time to wait on the arrival of an on-site interpreter, however precise and accurate communication is still required in order to properly care and treat the LEP patient. On-site interpretation is not always the best option in fast pace hospital settings and that is why a lot of healthcare facilities are moving towards utilizing video remote interpreting (VRI) when in need of breaking down a language barrier.    

Video Remote Interpreting (VRI):

Video remote interpreting (VRI) is a telecommunication service that uses a sophisticated web-based platform to provide sign language or spoken language interpretation services remotely. VRI gives you access to an interpreter through a user-friendly online portal that can be used for pre-schedule or on-demand appointments. The only components needed to successfully utilize professional VRI services include a computer, smartphone or tablet and internet connection with sufficient bandwidth.

Addressing Concerns Regarding VRI:

1. Poor Audio and Visual Quality:

When stable internet connection is made and sufficient bandwidth is available there is no issue with the audio or visual aspects of a VRI session. No one can predict outside elements of a specific situation, however technology has advanced so much that when utilizing professional VRI services, it can feel as though the interpreter is in the room with you.

2. Information Security:

It’s completely normal to be concerned with the security of the information being exchanged through a VRI connection. If you hire a professional and reputable language service company (LSC) then they will have had to adhere to the HIPPA requirements stating that end-to-end encryption needs to be implemented for VRI use in hospitals. End-to-end encryption (E2EE) is a system of communication where only the communicating users can read the messages. In principle, it prevents potential eavesdroppers and even the provider of the communication service from being able to access the cryptographic keys needed to decrypt the conversation.  

3. Not Having an Interpreter Present May Make the LEP Patient Uncomfortable:

Some may believe that not having an interpreter physically present can make the conversational exchange harder and can also make the LEP patient feel uncomfortable. It may seem a bit colder to speak about such important health topics over an internet connection but VRI actually marries the benefits of on-site interpretation with the convenience over-the-phone (OPI) interpretation. Both audio and visual aspects are kept intact so LEP patients can see as well as hear the interpreter. Most hospitals utilize VRI carts which are portable carts with a tablet attached to the top for easy accessibility. These carts can be placed on the LEP patients bedside so it feels as though the interpreter is in the room with you.

4. The Cost of VRI Services May Be Too Much:

On the contrary, VRI services are extremely cost-effective due to the fact you’re only paying for the time spent connected with the interpreter. There is no minimum time requirements or additional costs such paying for the interpreters mileage accrued and reimbursement for money spent on gas.

Gain access to VRI interpreters when you partner with Niki’s Int’l Ltd., a professional language services company (LSC) with over 20 years of experience providing high quality an accurate language services.

Niki’s Int’l Ltd. is a WBENC-Certified Women Business Enterprise with 20 years of language service experience. A global network of highly skilled interpreters and translators are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for on-site, telephonic and video remote interpretation services. Our linguists are available in over 350 languages and dialects, and our network includes certified interpreters and translators. Our work is guaranteed with a $1 Million Errors & Omissions policy, so that you can be confident that your project will be completed with the highest level of quality and professionalism within the field. For more information contact us at 1-877-567-8449 or visit our website at www.nilservices.com.

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