Medical Video Translation – Remote
In Video Translation (remote) often image of the interpreter on a computer monitor – glides past the nurse’s station on their way to see another patient. They are not doctors or nurses, but nevertheless plays an important role in patient care. These are medical interpreters. Their image and voice transmitted over a two-way Internet connection – meets the needs of patients with limited English proficiency.
Often, however, the doctor or nurse and the interpreter are not available at the same time, which can lead to delays in patient care. Remote video interpretation eliminates interpreter travel time, essentially providing an “on demand” service via a computer cart that can be rolled from room to room while the interpreter sits at a terminal elsewhere.
Patients have the opportunity to ask questions in the language they’re most comfortable with. Working with the medical center’s information technology department.
Bridging the communication gap between limited-English-proficiency patients and hospital staff is a safety issue. Relying on family members to convey important health care data is risky because doctors and nurses can’t be certain that what they’ve said is accurately translated. In January, The Joint Commission – the nation’s hospital accrediting organization – set standards for interpretation.
So far, the video system is being well received. “Patients seem surprised to see a computer screen, but they relax when they see how it helps them understand the doctor or nurse,” says Guzman, the interpreter in this video. “This lets me quickly provide interpretation at different places.”
Staff has also welcomed the innovation. This also improves interaction with the patient, they don’t have to spend time waiting for an in-person medical interpreter.
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