Video Remote Interpreting “Finding the Best Fit” Douglas Newton, CSC, SC: L

What is VRI? Providing Sign Language Interpreting using Video Conference Equipment “when an interpreter cannot be physically present to interpret to two or more persons who are together at the same location” (FCC)

What is VRI? Technology 1. Polycom (other companies provide equipment) 2. ISDN (high speed data telephone lines) 3. Speed 384 kbps minimum 4. Point to Point Connection Security 1. ISDN v IP 2. HIPAA Compliance Is it the same as VRS?

How Does VRI Fit? VRI is a tool that is one piece of the puzzle that Medical Facilities put together to respond to the needs of Deaf and Hard of Hearing patients and their families. VRI should not be considered adequate to meet all the needs of Deaf and Hard of Hearing patients or replace on-site interpreting.

Factors in Opting to Use VRI Availability of Interpreting Services Distance/Travel Urgency of Response Choice/Comfort of Patient

VRI Applications Where is VRI Being Used? Hospitals in ER, Patient Rooms, Conference Rooms, Training Rooms Courts Private Business State Agencies Educational Institutions

How Does VRI Actually Work? Deaf Patient at ER with Nurse/Doctor and… Interpreter at Remote Site Deaf/Hearing Interpreting Team at Remote Site Deaf Interpreter at ER with Nurse/Doc with Hearing Interpreter at Remote Site Hearing Interpreter at ER with Nurse/Doc with Deaf Interpreter at Remote Site

Use in Medical Settings 1. Triage until On-Site Interpreter Arrives 2. Emergencies 3. Family Meetings 4. Patient Rooms 5. Pre-scheduled Visits

VRI logistics are different than on-site interpreting The remote interpreter only sees what the camera sees, therefore: Room Set-up: Room should facilitate communication-mic, camera Assessment of Communication: Allow time for interpreter and patient to establish communication Introductions: everyone in the room

More VRI Logistics Speaker Identity: Interpreters cannot identify voices Patient Access to VRI: Patient must be able to use equipment-ill, prone, visual issues Portability: Equipment cannot follow patient to other departments

Facilities Using VRI Should: Establish Protocols Provided Training 1. Four Components-Deaf Culture, Use of Interpreters, Technology, Hospital Policies 2. Target Staff Those who have initial contact i.e. registration Nursing Staff Supervisors ER Staff Patient Services

EVALUATION FINDINGS High Quality of Services Patient Survey (“True” or “False”) With VRI, I feel more comfortable with the hospital staff. 90% “True” With VRI, I can communicate better with hospital staff. 85% “True” With VRI, I can explain my problem better. 94% “True”

Is VRI a Good Fit for You? VRI is a piece of the puzzle The decision to use VRI should be made in cases where it facilitates effective communication VRI works well regionally Regional signs come into play when using national services VRI should be comfortable for patients