updated March 21,2025
Both organizations and individuals can leverage video remote interpreting (VRI) to support the ASL community by partnering with an on-demand ASL interpreter for clients and patients
April 15 marks National ASL Day, a celebration of the American Sign Language (ASL) community and the power of visual communication. At SpokenHere, we are committed to ensuring that the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) community has seamless access to communication. That’s why we’re spotlighting the impact of video remote interpreters in ASL, and how VRI continues to be an essential tool for bridging language gaps in real-time.
The Role of an ASL Interpreter in a Digital World
The demand for professional ASL interpreters continues to grow as businesses, healthcare providers, and educational institutions strive to create more inclusive environments. Traditionally, in-person interpretation has been the standard for the DHH community, but with advancements in technology, video remote interpreting (VRI) for ASL is now a crucial service that offers flexibility and instant accessibility.
In the past, on-site ASL interpreters were both more challenging to find and pricier, as they often charged premium hourly rates for on-site interpretation. For instance, if you needed an ASL interpreter for a 30-minute doctor visit, then you would often have to pay for 2 hours of on-site interpretation time because of additional travel costs and provide the interpreter a minimum of one week notice for in-person appointment needs. When you request a video remote interpreter in ASL through SpokenHere’s digital platform, however, you avoid all of those issues and pay only for the time that you are connected to the remote ASL interpreter. It’s on-demand, so no scheduling is needed.
ASL Quick Facts:
“Approximately 500,000 people of all ages throughout the U.S. use the language to communicate. ASL is the third most commonly used language in the United States, after English and Spanish.” (National ASL Day)
Recent statistics from 2021 indicate that nearly 10,000,000 persons are hard of hearing and close to 1,000,000 are functionally deaf in the United States.
April 15 became the National ASL Day of observance, celebrating that on April 15, 1817, the first school for the deaf in the United States opened.
-Explore these facts and more HERE
Why ASL Video Remote Interpreting is a Game-Changer
Consider how much you convey with your eyes or a hand gesture in regular conversation. For the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing communities, these visual cues are absolutely essential. VRI ensures everyone can participate in the conversation and is clearly understood.
- Instant Access– Our HIPAA compliant video remote interpreting platform connects users to professional ASL interpreters within seconds, reducing wait times and ensuring immediate communication.
- Cost-Effective Solution– Without travel costs, two-hour minimums, or scheduling delays, VRI is a much better alternative to in-person interpretation.
- Compliance with ADA Regulations– Many industries must provide ASL interpretation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). VRI helps businesses meet these requirements efficiently.
- Versatility for Any Setting– Whether in hospitals, corporate meetings, customer service interactions, or legal consultations, VRI ensures that DHH individuals receive the support they need.
Real-World Impact of ASL VRI
SpokenHere’s on-demand VRI service has transformed communication for countless individuals and businesses serving the ASL community and those who are deaf or facing similar communication challenges. For example:
- Hospitals & Clinics: Patients receive instant ASL interpretation during emergency visits and routine appointments.
- Workplaces: Employers ensure inclusive meetings, training sessions, and HR interactions.
- Customer Service & Retail: Businesses provide accessible support without requiring in-person interpreters.
Partner With SpokenHere: Your Video Remote Interpreter in ASL
At SpokenHere, we are committed to ensuring seamless communication between the DHH community and service providers. Our VRI platform offers reliable, high-quality ASL interpretation at the click of a button, with professional interpreters ready to assist anytime 24/7/365. Plus, with even more AI-enhanced features coming soon (such as AI-leveraged meeting transcription), our VRI services are even more economical, convenient, and easier to access.
This National ASL Day, let’s work together to build a world where language barriers never stand in the way of connection. Learn more about our VRI services and how we can help your business create an inclusive experience for all.
📞 Contact us today to explore VRI solutions for your organization!