When it comes to medical interpreting services, there are multiple options that you can use. But how do you decide which one is best to use for a specific scenario? Language access is vital in healthcare settings, so this is important to evaluate.
To help you make the best and most informed choice, let’s take a look at the differences between interpreting options that can be used in healthcare settings.
Medical Interpreting Options
In-Person Medical Interpreting
In-person interpretation offers a personal approach. When working with limited English proficiency (LEP) patients, there can be a lot of confusion. And sensitive issues can be challenging to handle. Therapy and pediatrics are two prime examples where in-person interpreting is always best to use. Why? Well because the LEP patients need to be engaged in these settings. Cultural barriers and body language can be too confusing to understand without the help of an experienced interpreter.
In-person interpreting is always the best option (when it’s viable to do so) because the interpreter’s physical presence can make a big difference. By being in the room, the interpreter can read body language and facial expressions much better. He or she will be able to pick up on confusion and when something needs further explanation by observing body language.
VRI
Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) works well whenever limited in-person contact is required. Hello COVID-19! Unlike telephone interpreting, VRI still allows the speaker and listener to observe the interpreter’s body language, facial expressions, and room dynamics, and vice versa, but just via remote video sessions. VRI is also great for when there simply isn’t time to wait for an in-person interpreter. Emergencies and unplanned procedures are often facilitated with the help of VRI solutions that still provide face-to-face interpreting.
VRI can also be more cost-effective than in-person interpreting. In-person interpreting often involves hourly charges along with traveling and mileage costs. Although video interpreting is more affordable than in-person interpreting, it still costs more than telephone interpreting.
Over-the-Phone Medical Interpreting
Over-the-phone interpretation (OPI) is often the most accessible and quickest option. It’s an excellent choice for preventative care and non-emergency situations since there’s no scheduling required to access an interpreter.
Speed is by far the most significant advantage of telephone interpreting. Phones are accessible almost everywhere and can get you connected to an interpreter within seconds. Some language service providers, like Day Interpreting, pride themselves on being able to provide their clients with instant access to telephone interpreting in more than 92 languages!
Need Professional Medical Interpreting Services for Your Organization?
With more than a decade of experience in the healthcare interpreting field, Day Interpreting and Day Translations is HIPAA-compliant. We are leaders in the field of medical interpreting. Our native professional healthcare interpreters are highly specialized and facilitate clear and effective communication to members of the healthcare sector.
Get in touch with us today to assess your needs and suggest the best interpreting style for your organization and LEP patients. Not only do our healthcare interpreters have a deep understanding of medical terminology, but they’re also experts in mediating even the most stressful situations!
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