Video remote interpreting uses audio and video technologies via a device, such as an iPad, to provide interpretation virtually. Video remote interpreting is available 24/7 and is an on-demand system. Users have access to the following and are connected to interpreters within seconds:
- 40 spoken languages via video
- American Sign Language via video
- 200 spoken languages via audio
Video remote interpreting devices can be found in emergency departments in Fraser Health, Vancouver Coastal Health, Providence Health Care, Interior Health, BC Children's Hospital, and BC Women's Hospital. Some health authority services have video remote interpreting devices available to use in other clinical areas as well.
BC Emergency Health Services has video remote interpreting installed on their B.C. paramedics-issued devices for Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing individuals.
Video remote interpreting is the primary modality for Deaf and Hard of Hearing patients in geographic locations where there is no or limited access to in-person sign language interpreters and when the communication will be short in duration.
In a location where an on-site sign language interpreter may be available, video remote interpreting is used as an interim solution for Deaf and Hard of Hearing patients until an on-site sign language interpreter arrives.