Success factors and rules for using interpreters in video consultations
You've probably experienced communication problems in a video meeting when there is a delay between what is said and what you hear. The challenge is even greater when the patient and doctor don't speak the same language and an interpreter comes into play. Webinar recording about screen interpreting in healthcare.
Important points about interpretation
Anne-Margrethe Linnestad emphasises that we must remember that interpreting is a profession. It's not just a job. Good preparation is important: who are you talking to? What technology will be used?
Jessica Hansen believes that not just any technology should be used. In other words, don't use a mobile phone camera with edge coverage that only shows half your face. Use quality technology and qualified interpreters.
Recording
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More information
Video consultations with GPs or specialists certainly have their advantages, but it's particularly challenging to be an interpreter in such a situation. There can be delays, people talk into each other's mouths and if the camera angle is wrong, non-verbal communication is missed. It's important information that is shared between patient and healthcare professional. That's why it's critical that everyone follows some ground rules so that the interpretation service delivers the best results.
Occupational therapy specialist Anne-Margrethe Linnestad at Sunnaas Hospital and associate professor Jessica Hansen at Østfold University College share their tips on screen interpretation in this webinar.
Read more in the technological report Screen interpreting - a question of organisation or technology?