The statistics on abuse are sobering. And yet, despite the horrifying numbers already documented, the advocates for human rights and other specialized task force members recognize that abuse is often still under-reported by victims: the numbers are likely even higher than we know.

Just a few of the statistics that victim advocates confirm:

• “Across the world, more than 27 million people, including thousands here at home, are subjected to the shameful, abhorrent abuse of human trafficking and forced labor. Human trafficking targets the most vulnerable in society and exploits them.” -President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. in “A Proclamation on National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, 2025”
• “An average of 24 people per minute are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States – more than 12 million women and men over the course of a single year.” -National Domestic Violence Hotline reporting Domestic Violence Statistics
• “Women and girls account for 71 per cent of all victims of modern slavery. That means one in every 130 women and girls is living in modern slavery.” –Voices4Freedom sharing the Stacked Odds report findings from the UN Secretary General’s collaborative initiative Every Woman Every Child
• “At least 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 20 boys in the United States experience child sexual abuse.” -CDC in a May 2024 report of child sexual abuse
• “An estimated 558,899 children (unique incidents) were victims of abuse and neglect in the U.S. in 2022, the most recent year for which there is national data. That’s 8 children out of every thousand.” -National Children’s Alliance on National Statistics on Child Abuse

The Role of Over-The-Phone Interpreting In Trauma Informed Care

Reliving traumatic stories is already a heavy burden for abuse victims – regardless of whether a language barrier exists – when they are seeking asylum and safety. For those with Limited English Proficiency (LEP), the inability to communicate effectively can intensify feelings of fear and shame – perhaps even more so for child and teen victims of abuse. It may even prevent them from sharing critical details with law enforcement and other trauma informed experts, hindering a victim’s path to justice and recovery.

Four Primary Ways OPI Supports Victims of Abuse:

1. 1. Over-the-phone interpreting (OPI) services can help survivors express themselves and feel like they have a “voice” again, providing a confidential and safe communication method so that they can speak openly in their native language without fear of misinterpretation. This can help foster trust and understanding between victims of abuse and the teams working to provide hope and support options.
   2. OPI is also often an ideal resource for LEP abuse survivors as it also can provide immediate crisis assistance. Survivors often seek help in moments of urgency and need flexible language access 24/7/365. OPI services provide that real-time solution for crisis hotlines and other victim advocate organizations.
   3. While not always a factor, OPI (in contrast to video remote interpreting) can also feel less overwhelming to some LEP victims, as they are coping with their situation, who benefit from less visual interaction with additional new faces (even if those “new faces” are well-intentioned on a video platform). OPI is a compassionate, non-intrusive language resource for many survivors, as they connect with trauma informed experts via a remote interpreter communicating on a telephone or another only-auditory platform.

1. 4. Additionally, OPI services can reduce the compounded trauma experienced by some during the reporting process by helping victims not need to tell and retell their stories due to language barriers and miscommunication. OPI streamlines legal and social services, supporting organizations in delivering comprehensive recovery support to victims of abuse. For non-profits, OPI is also usually a cost-effective method to provide language access to victims.

“At its core, the fight against modern slavery is about ensuring people have the most basic of human rights – freedom. This includes the freedom to control your own body, to refuse certain work or to stop working, to decide when and whom to marry. Protecting that freedom, particularly in women and girls, will transform our economies and societies for the better.”
–Standout Findings published by Walk Free from the Stacked Odds report

Who Are the Trauma Informed Experts Advocating For Victims and Ensuring Language Access?

While January has been dubbed “Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month” across the nation, and IT IS a crucial time to raise awareness about modern day slavery and amplify the voices of survivors and advocates alike, our SpokenHere team understands that the work of fighting modern day slavery and domestic abuse is not confined to one month or even to daylight hours.
We are honored to spotlight the work of several organizations that work tirelessly year-round to fight abuse and who are the trauma informed experts advocating for victims. Our remote interpreters are proud to partner with these non-profits and trauma informed teams, which are dedicated to protecting and empowering vulnerable individuals night and day – whenever the calls come in.
We invite you to learn more about each of these organizations and get involved in the fight against modern slavery and abuse:

YWCA

YWCA has long been a beacon of hope and advocacy for victims of human trafficking. Through its comprehensive programs, the YWCA provides critical resources like shelter, counseling, job training, and legal assistance, empowering survivors to rebuild their lives.
The YWCA also champions policy changes and raises awareness about the systemic issues contributing to human trafficking, working tirelessly to create a safer, more equitable world.To learn more about their initiatives or get involved, visit their website. You can explore volunteer opportunities, donate to support their work, or participate in their educational programs to help amplify the fight against human trafficking.

Saving Innocence

Saving Innocence is at the forefront of the effort to fight modern slavery and abuse, providing specialized care and advocacy for child victims of human trafficking. Its mission focuses on rescue, recovery, and restoration, offering immediate crisis intervention, long-term support, and empowerment programs tailored to help survivors reclaim their futures. Saving Innocence also works to educate communities and influence systemic change to protect vulnerable children and prevent exploitation.
To learn more about Saving Innocence’s vital work or find ways to contribute, visit their website. You can make a donation, become a volunteer, or join their efforts to raise awareness and protect the most vulnerable among us.

The Teen Project

The Teen Project is a transformative force in the lives of young women who have aged out of foster care and are at high risk of homelessness and exploitation, including human trafficking. Through its innovative programs, The Teen Project offers safe housing, rehabilitation, education, and career training, empowering survivors to heal and build independent futures.
Their efforts also include outreach and advocacy to prevent exploitation and raise awareness about the vulnerabilities faced by at-risk youth. To learn more or get involved in their life-changing mission, visit their website. You can donate, volunteer, or spread the word to help ensure every young woman has the opportunity for a brighter, safer future.

Program for Torture Victims

The Program for Torture Victims (PTV) provides essential support to survivors of severe trauma, including human trafficking. They specialize in holistic care, offering medical, mental health, and legal services to help survivors heal and rebuild their lives.
In addition to their direct services, PTV raises awareness about the plight of trafficking victims and advocates for policies that uphold human rights and prevent exploitation. Their comprehensive approach addresses both the immediate and long-term needs of survivors, fostering recovery and empowerment.
To learn more about PTV’s impactful work or discover ways to contribute, visit their website. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, you can help support survivors on their journey to reclaiming their lives and dignity.

Urban Resource Institute

The Urban Resource Institute (URI) provides vital support to survivors of human trafficking through their comprehensive programs that offer safe housing, trauma-informed counseling, and economic empowerment services. In addition to direct care, URI advocates for systemic change to address the root causes of exploitation and raises awareness about human trafficking’s impact on individuals and communities. Their innovative initiatives ensure that survivors have the resources they need to heal and thrive.
To learn more about URI’s mission or find ways to help, visit their website. Whether by donating, volunteering, or sharing their message, you can play a role in empowering survivors and combating human trafficking.

Children’s Legal Center

The Children’s Legal Center (CLC) provides critical legal advocacy and support for children and young survivors of trafficking and exploitation. By addressing their unique legal needs, including immigration relief, custody issues, and access to vital services, CLC empowers survivors to rebuild their lives.
CLC also works to prevent trafficking by educating communities, raising awareness, and advocating for systemic change to protect vulnerable youth. Their dedicated efforts help ensure that children have the resources and support needed to heal and thrive.
To learn more about the Children’s Legal Center or to get involved, visit their website. You can donate, volunteer, or help spread awareness to support their mission of justice and safety for every child.

Enhancing Meaningful Communication for Victims: Join the Movement

As we bring awareness to Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month and who are some of the incredible, trauma informed experts and advocates providing safe havens for survivors of abuse and modern slavery, our team invites non-profits, advocacy groups, and community leaders to explore how OPI can enhance their mission and consider partnering with compassionate, language professionals. Together, we can help victims reclaim their voices and create a world where survivors are heard, empowered, and supported. Compassionate remote interpreting can play a key role in victim advocacy and survivors’ recovery journeys.
For more information on how SpokenHere’s over-the-phone interpreting services can support your organization, contact us today.

The post Who Are The Trauma Informed Experts Fighting Modern Slavery and Abuse appeared first on SpokenHere Language Services.

In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, businesses of all kinds suddenly had to find new solutions for interacting with their employees and customers remotely. This led to many new and unexpected challenges, particularly when those employees or customers speak different languages. Beyond the obvious business challenges, it has also provided scope for creativity and flexibility in the way that services are delivered.

The recent need to limit in person interaction has accelerated the blurring of boundaries between the digital and physical worlds. The pandemic has had a direct impact on organizations and industries, as everything from face-to-face meetings, trainings, and conferences, to legal hearings and medical consultations have shifted to remote or virtual meetings. In light of these changes, many organizations have begun using remote interpreting services to keep important communication flowing.

Using Remote Interpreting as a Solution

While remote interpreting isn’t new, the rapidly increasing number and types of companies needing a remote solution for interacting with employees and customers in multiple languages is. Communication standards and processes that were developed around an on-site business can quickly unravel when teams are no longer interacting face-to-face or meetings with customers have gone virtual. By switching to remote interpreters for their business interpreting needs, today’s companies can make sure both their multilingual workforces and customers can continue to have a seat at the table. Telephone and video interpreters have an established history of providing a faster, more cost-effective solution for situations in which booking an in-person interpreter ahead of time isn’t economically or logistically possible.

Examples of businesses in various industries using remote interpreting services to remain competitive in today’s economy include:

• companies with supply chains spanning multiple countries,
• companies with a global workforce or a multilingual domestic workforce,
• companies that outsource one or more of their internal or external processes, such as call centers or human resource departments, and
• companies with customers who speak more than one language (a possibility for almost any company).

For these and myriad other situations a business might encounter, remote interpreting offers many of the same benefits of an on-site interpreter but with increased convenience and typically lower costs. Also, it provides an alternative when it might be dangerous for the interpreter to be there in person, or the situation doesn’t allow time to arrange for an in-person interpreter. Police stations and emergency rooms, for example, have used remote interpreting services for years.

Choosing the Right Remote Interpreting Solution

When deciding to use a remote solution for your business interpreting needs, there are two options: Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) and Over-the-Phone Interpreting (OPI). VRI uses a secure virtual conference call to include the participants and the interpreter all on video. OPI, as it sounds, is instead done over the phone, so the participants and interpreter can’t see each other. There are many factors that affect which option is right for your business and particular situation.

Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)

Since a large portion of our communication is non-verbal, VRI allows interpreters to be able to interpret more accurately because they can read the body language and facial expressions of the participants. VRI also makes remote interpretation accessible for sign language users, allowing them to communicate in real time the way they are most comfortable with. VRI does require access to an Internet connection and a camera.

VRI services are being used more and more in business because of the popularity of having work teams scattered in different locations, often with members who speak different languages. As more employees become comfortable and familiar with telecommuting and video conferencing, the opportunities for many different types of companies and industries to take advantage of VRI continues to increase.

Remote Audio Interpretation (OPI) (also referred to as Over-the-Phone Interpretation)

When you need to communicate in another language right away or need access to interpreters in rare languages, OPI is great solution that offers the benefits of being readily available, convenient, and easy of use. But don’t be misled, OPI isn’t only done over a phone call anymore; users can connect in a variety of ways, such as via a mobile app or website. Choosing OPI gives you access to an extensive list of languages. It’s also an ideal choice when one or more of the participants may not have reliable Internet access, a video camera, or experience with virtual conferencing. OPI is popular because it is often the most cost-effective solution, but is also chosen because it can save time, or just provide a more effective format for that specific communication.

Remote Interpreting Successes

Youth Villages, a national non-profit organization, provides support for children and young people facing difficult situations across the United States. As the number of communities they served grew and expanded across the United States geographically, they found they needed to communicate with families in a growing number of languages. They realized they did not have the internal staff to help with those conversations. As one can imagine, the families they are trying to support are facing challenging, and often emotional, situations. In order to give these families the proper support, the Youth Villages staff needed to be able to communicate with them and put them at ease in a variety of settings. Youth Villages has been using SpokenHere’s remote interpreting services to help them continue to do their important work in our communities. Watch a video interview with Youth Villages staff to hear even more.

“Using SpokenHere, through my employer, has allowed me to communicate effectively to clients who are not familiar with English. It has helped bridge the gap. I admire the level of communication and timeliness the professional staff at SpokenHere has. What surprised me the most is the level of consistency and dedication the staff have. The interpreter I request has a 12 hour time difference from me. Despite the difference, she is always excited and happy to interpret. I wouldn’t be able to tell that she was waking up close to 4 AM every morning to assist me! I would recommend this service to everyone.” – Richelene Pierre, Bilingual Family Intervention Specialist, Youth Villages

Axiom Medical Consulting, a medical case management firm providing complete occupational health services for their clients’ employees, has partnered with SpokenHere for both translation and interpreting projects for many years. In April 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Axiom saw its foreign language medical case management load increase by 1650% in the first month after signing one of the largest U.S. food producers as a client. One major challenge Axiom Medical faced was how to handle a surge in remote consultations (telehealth), especially for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) patients. The most pressing challenges Axiom Medical had to overcome were the giant increase in call volume and the number of languages spoken by patients, coupled with a very short lead time (one day!) to implement a solution.

Our ConnectNow remote interpreting platform helped Axiom Medical absorb the huge surge in demand for telehealth consultations with its on demand access to HIPAA trained and certified interpreters. Our remote medical interpreters were already in place and available to Axiom Medical 24/7/365. As a result, Axiom was able to maintain a 99.2% customer satisfaction rating while using SpokenHere remote interpreters despite the spike in call volume. You can read more about it in our Case Study on Axiom Medical.

“When providing care to ill or injured employees, it is vital that we ‘get it right’! SpokenHere is a vital component of being able to communicate effectively. They are very professional, accurate, and responsive to our needs.” – Holly Foxworth, Marketing Manager-Content Axiom Medical Consulting

Making Remote Interpreting Easy for any Business

Whether interacting with LEP customers, recruiting or collaborating with diverse work teams, or communicating with multilingual business partners, remote interpreting is a great way to fulfill your business interpreting needs efficiently and cost-effectively. Remote interpreting services are economical, convenient, and easy to access whenever you need them.

In an effort to make our remote interpreting services even more attractive to our business clients, we have recently launched a new remote interpreting subscription program. The goal of this program is to offer clients the added value and convenience of prepaying for monthly remote interpreting minutes at a discounted rate.

As interpreting needs grow, the subscription level can be adjusted to take advantage of even more savings. Details about the different subscription levels and what’s included with each are available on our remote interpreting subscriptions page.

The post Remote Interpreting — Solving New Business Challenges appeared first on SpokenHere Language Services.

Video Remote Interpretation, or VRI, is a form of videoconferencing technology in which two or more people can speak or sign through a remote interpreter. VRI services were originally designed with the deaf or hard of hearing community in mind, but the use of video communication has grown rapidly in recent years as an empathetic communication tool across languages and industries.

There was a significant spike in VRI use with languages other than American Sign Language (ASL) during and after the global pandemic, as families, friends, organizations, and entities all around the world strove to social distance and carry on life remotely. The medical field specifically benefited from video remote interpreting services, as healthcare providers could conduct business and care for patients while ensuring the health of all involved.

How does Video Remote Interpretation differ from Over-the-Phone Interpretation (OPI)?

The simple answer is that VRI includes audio and visual communication components, while OPI only provides audio communication over a phone line. Though the additional communication benefits of VRI are clear in many situations, there are still pros and cons to each form of remote interpretation that should be evaluated before scheduling an interpretation session.

Video Remote Interpretation Advantages and Disadvantages:

• VRI can be used to communicate with members of the deaf or hard of hearing community using ASL.
• Visual cues can help provide more meaningful communication for the remote interpreter and for both parties.
• Body language and facial expressions can often convey more emotion and context than purely spoken words, helping to ensure that meaning isn’t lost in translation.

Over the Phone Interpretation Advantages and Disadvantages:

• OPI can’t be used to communicate with members of the deaf or hard of hearing community, so it is not a good option for ASL needs.
• It is often more convenient for users than video chat, as there are fewer logistics to manage.

Each form of remote interpreting has aspects that make that service a better fit under differing circumstances. To learn more about best practices when using either type of remote interpreting, check out this article by our Senior Account & Remote Interpreting Manager, Kim Beck, to optimize your remote interpreting session.

Which Languages are most Popular for Video Remote Interpretation (VRI)?

American Sign Language

It is common knowledge that members of the deaf and hard of hearing community use hand signs to communicate. Body language and facial expressions, however, are still depended upon to understand the underlying meaning and context tied to those hand signs. Visual cues are universally important across languages, including for those using sign languages such as ASL. This makes video remote interpreting ideal for communicating via ASL in most situations.

During the more intense outbreaks of Covid-19, global mask-wearing made it challenging for anyone to see full facial expressions, posing additional communication hurdles for many. As humans, we often lean on visual cues of someone’s mouth movements even when we don’t hear their words, but this is not possible while wearing a face mask. Mask-wearing during the pandemic (and since that time) has made communication arduous for members of the deaf or hard of hearing community, especially if they are in hospital settings, where masks might still be required and an in-person interpreter may not be permitted.

While the worst of the global pandemic outbreaks are hopefully behind us, these communication challenges make VRI capabilities vitally important for any business that connects with members of the deaf or hard of hearing community. Video remote interpreting technology allows you to communicate effectively with any deaf or hard of hearing person without risking the health of either party.

Fun Fact: Did you know that members of the deaf and hard of hearing community have dialects and use their own slang? Our remote interpreters have extensive experience throughout the deaf and hard of hearing community, including localization.

 

Arabic

According to Boostlingo, there are more than 400 million Arabic speakers around the world and it’s the fastest growing language in the United States. In the United States, as much as one third of the Arabic speaking population is concentrated in 3 states: Michigan, New York, and California. SpokenHere’s team is highly adept at interpreting Arabic to English and vice versa.

Chinese Mandarin

Somewhere between 917 million and 1.3 BILLION people on Earth speak Mandarin Chinese or another form of Chinese. In fact, Babbel claims that approximately 1 in 6 people in the world speak Chinese. If you’re doing business on an international scale, there is a good chance that you will encounter the need for an English to Chinese interpreter, and video remote interpreting services can ensure that none of the visual cues are lost during communication.

Spanish

In terms of worldwide popularity, Spanish comes in second only to Chinese Mandarin, with over 450 million native speakers in over 20 countries. While Spanish is commonly associated with Central and South America, it is spoken widely throughout North America and Europe as well. In fact, there are currently more Spanish speakers in the United States than there are in Spain! Remote interpretation between English and Spanish-speaking natives is incredibly valuable, even for local businesses.

How can you start using VRI to improve your business?

Whether you need to communicate with someone on the other side of the globe or someone in your office, our goal is to build relationships by bridging cross-cultural and multi-language communication gaps.

Video remote interpreting services with SpokenHere are economical, convenient, and easy to access. Our rates for VRI services are charged by the minute, with no minimum monthly fees. SpokenHere’s ConnectNow remote interpretation platform allows you to connect with our professional interpreters instantly from your desktop, tablet, or even mobile device. Additionally, our on-demand VRI services are available 8:00AM – 8:00PM EST Monday through Friday and by appointment outside of those hours.

Contact us to learn more and view a demonstration.

The post An Overview of Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) appeared first on SpokenHere Language Services.

Medical interpreters are one of the unsung heroes in providing critical, accessible medical care. Their unique skills and talents are the special sauce of SpokenHere’s winning recipe for medical interpretation services.

Interpreting is always a challenging job. For Medical Interpreters, the task is made more so when you add in the need to communicate complex medical terminology and jargon to the patient. An interpreter must communicate in a way the patient can understand. They must also interpret and translate cultural nuances back to the medical professional.

What does it take to become a Medical Interpreter?

Medical interpretation requires knowledge of medical terminology, both in the source and target languages since they will have to translate those terms from both sides of the conversation.  In addition to medical terminology, they also need to have knowledge of simple words (even slang), because patients don’t often use complicated medical terms to describe how they feel. Past experience in the medical field is an advantage.  For example, if someone has education or experience as a nurse or medical office staff, it is beneficial as an interpreter too. 

Interpreting medical conversations is no small task.  It requires the ability to remember large passages, convey empathy for the patient’s concerns, and practice a high level of professionalism and discretion.

Which certifications are required to become a Medical Interpreter?

A prospective interpreter must be 18 or older, have at least a high school diploma or GED, and must attend a minimum of a 40 hour medical interpreting certificate course.

In the U.S., there are two organizations that offer certifications:

• The Commission for Healthcare Interpreters (CCHI),or
• The National Board for Certified Medical Interpreters (NBCMI).

Once qualified, a Medical Interpreter needs to complete 32 hours of continuing education every four years for the CCHI and 30 hours every five years for the NBCMI in order to retain the certification.

A prospective interpreter will also need to complete a HIPAA training course. These courses are geared at educating the interpreter about the ethics surrounding the law and the conditions and legal consequences of divulging a patient’s medical information. HIPAA training suite for on-demand interpreters is available online. The online courses satisfy the HIPAA training requirement for 2 years.

What makes SpokenHere’s medical interpreters awesome?

One of the things that makes our medical interpretation team stand out from the rest is their spirit of communal learning and support. In addition to continuous training, SpokenHere’s interpreters collaborate and receive mentoring from our most experienced, senior-level interpreters.

All of our interpreters are provided with ongoing training to continue to hone their skills. Our internal support team holds a new client check-in to gain useful feedback to share with and help guide our interpreters. We also perform spot checks on interpreting calls for quality assurance and to make sure our interpreters are representing our core values in every interaction.

Would you like to see a demonstration of SpokenHere’s remote interpreting platform? There’s no obligation other than watching to learn more, and we’re happy to answer your questions.

The post The “Right Stuff” for Becoming a Medical Interpreter appeared first on SpokenHere Language Services.

As our world becomes more connected through globalization, there is an increasing need for remote interpretation and translation jobs in the workforce. There is an estimated 76,100 interpreting jobs in the United States, and that number is expected to increase by about 19 percent over the next few years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, that increase has occurred faster than many other professions. As the United States becomes more diverse and companies all over the world work together, interpretation services will become more in demand.

One may think that interpretation is an easy job for anyone who is bilingual. You might be surprised at the skills needed to be a successful interpreter! Accurate and high quality interpretation can be arduous, especially when interpreting in real-time. Interpreters must listen, mentally interpret, and remember the message before speaking to the other person. This multi-tasking skill becomes challenging when the conversation topic is highly technical. In healthcare, for example, the interpreter’s communication accuracy and understanding can mean the difference between life and death.

SpokenHere works with remote interpreters based in more than 80 countries around the world. Each one has a unique perspective and helps to make SpokenHere an even better language services company. To celebrate our remote interpretation team, we are sharing some of their stories. 

Meet Remote Interpreter Giancarlo

Giancarlo lives in Lima, Peru and has been interpreting remotely for over 15 years. He interprets between English and Spanish.

What do you enjoy most about remote interpreting? 

I like helping people understand and communicate with each other, but the flexibility of the scheduling is pretty nice, too. I can put in more hours today, if I want to take some time off tomorrow. I really enjoy what I do.

How has remote interpreting changed since COVID-19?

For me, the main change is that the vast majority of calls are medical and COVID related. Covering certain areas that are harder hit has been rather tough and very emotional. It’s tough to break bad news to someone over the phone, but it’s worse when those persons cannot communicate with each other. That is where we come in and have to hold it together for the well-being of the families and our own well-being, too.

Tell us a brief story about how your interpreting has made an impact on someone or something that has happened while interpreting.

One night I received a 911 call from a frantic Spanish speaking mother. Her child was not breathing and the dispatcher gave instructions to check airways and perform CPR while help was on the way. The child was able to start breathing on his own before the paramedics arrived. The dispatcher was able to use important instructions, which I was able to relay and keep her calm at the same time. We were able, as a team, to save precious time for emergency healthcare. The child ended up being well.

Meet Remote Interpreter Islam

Remote interpreter, Islam, is based in Egypt. He is a biochemist by training, and he interprets between Arabic and English.

What do you enjoy most about interpreting?

I enjoy helping two people who speak different languages and are from different cultures understand and laugh with each other. Because I’m the bridge between them, that is when I realize how similar people can be inside despite their differences outside.

How has remote interpreting changed since COVID-19?

It became more challenging to see first hand how the pandemic is affecting people along with the doctors. On the bright side, I could feel solidarity with them since the pandemic started. Everyone is in the same boat, and we all help each other in hard times, just exactly like we should normally do as humans.

What is your number one tip for people who are new to working with a remote interpreter?

The interpreter is there to make sure that your message is 100 percent delivered on the language level and the emotional level as well. It is important to ensure you direct your speech to the person you are talking to and the interpreter will be sure that you are heard as if there were no language barriers.

Tell us a brief story about how your interpreting has made an impact on someone or something that has happened while interpreting.

I spoke to a spiritual worker in a hospital with a Christian patient. They were talking about how faith is very important during hard times, and they decided to pray together. I interpreted the prayer, then we all said “Amen” at the same time in a spontaneous moment.

The spiritual support worker asked me about the spelling of my name. When I said I-s-l-a-m, the worker was amazed and happy that I interpreted the prayer in the correct way without previous knowledge. They were even happier about the fact that we all prayed together in one moment despite the differences and spaces between us. In that moment, I saw the real value in my job as an interpreter, and it assured me of what I already knew: it doesn’t matter what religion we follow, what matters is how good we are to ourselves and each other. 

Much more than being bilingual

As you can see, the role of an interpreter involves so much more than just speaking two languages. These collaborators provide a necessary bridge between two people, often during sensitive or critical situations, and we couldn’t be prouder of the important work that they do.

SpokenHere’s international team of on-demand remote interpreters is available to help customers connect in more than 200 languages. Our interpreters are sensitive to the nature of the conversations happening in your organization — conversations that truly require patience and understanding.

Reach Out Today for a Free Demo and Consultation >

The post The Remote Interpreter’s Journey: Meet Our international team appeared first on SpokenHere Language Services.

Our team shares our favorite, proven strategies for preparing and then making the most of your over-the-phone or video remote interpreting session.

In today’s globalized world, effective communication knows no bounds. Whether overcoming linguistic obstacles or fostering trust in cross-cultural interactions, the role of professional interpreters is paramount. Remote interpreting, in particular, offers a seamless solution for facilitating meaningful conversations between parties with limited English proficiency (LEP) and those proficient in other languages.
Professional interpreters are adept at conveying ideas rather than simply relaying words verbatim. They navigate cultural nuances with finesse and refrain from injecting personal biases or opinions. This commitment to accuracy ensures that conversations are not only precise but also culturally correct (also called localization).

Here, we delve into our Top Five Best Practices for maximizing the efficacy of remote interpreting sessions.

1. Decide Which Style of Interpretation Session Fits Your Needs

Both over-the-phone and video remote interpretation sessions have pros and cons, and it’s important to decide which mode best fits your situation. When opting for remote interpreting, assess your needs and resources, and then select the most suitable option:

Audio Only (also known as OPI or over-the-phone interpreting)

• Ideal for situations requiring faster connection times
• Requires less equipment
• Available in more extensive language options
• Accessible 24/7, every day of the year, without an appointment

Video Remote Interpreting (also known as VRI or video remote interpreting)

• Requires a quality internet connection
• Offers visual cues and body language interpretation, enhancing comprehension and accuracy
• Availability is limited for some languages (8am-8pm EST with the exception of ASL and Spanish which are available 24/7)
• Important note: American Sign Language (ASL) necessitates a larger screen for optimal communication accuracy. ASL meetings should be conducted on the largest available screen. Avoid using anything smaller than an iPad or tablet.

2. Secure an Appropriate Location

Create an environment conducive to effective communication by:

• Ensuring privacy and minimal distractions.
• Providing adequate lighting to facilitate body language interpretation.
• Minimizing background noise to enhance audio clarity.

3. Check Equipment

Before either an over-the-phone or video remote session, verify that all technical aspects are in order:

• Test camera, microphone, and speakers to ensure functionality.
• Grant necessary permissions for our platform to access your camera, microphone, & speakers (this is usually only needed for first time connections, after major updates or with use of new/different equipment).
• Ensure a stable internet connection to avoid disruptions.
• Ensure you have adequate battery and/or have a charging device nearby.

Also, it is always a good idea to make a quick test call before your meeting, if you have not used our service before. This allowed you to troubleshoot any technical issues that may arise. You want to optimize your scheduled session by making sure that you don’t waste communication time.

4. Plan Ahead for Your Remote Interpreting Session

Be thoughtful as you prepare. Allocate sufficient time for interpreting sessions, as they typically require longer duration:

• A good rule is to double your expectation of how long a conversation will take. For example, 30-minute meetings or appointments should be scheduled for an hour to accommodate interpretation.
• Before initiating your conversation, provide the interpreter with a brief overview of the topic to be discussed. This will offer the interpreter valuable context, leading to a more efficient and cost-effective call.
• Always take your time in the conversation. Rushing can lead to errors, oversights, and discomfort for the LEP individual.

5. Speak Clearly

During a phone or video remote interpretation call, enhance clarity and comprehension for both parties by:

• Enunciating words clearly and avoiding slang or metaphors. Be aware of potential cultural factors and differences. What may be funny or meaningful for you in your native language could come across as offensive or meaningless for the other party.
• Pacing speech to allow for accurate interpretation. Pausing between sentences will allow the interpreter time to catch up and to convey your message accurately and completely.
• Addressing the other party directly while making eye contact rather than speaking to the interpreter or looking at the interpreter. For instance, instead of instructing the interpreter to convey a message like “Tell the other person that I am available for them anytime,” directly communicate to the other party by saying “I am available for you anytime” while directing your visual focus at the LEP individual.
• Allowing only one person to speak at a time. Remember that you are part of a conversation involving another individual and an interpreter. When multiple people speak simultaneously, the conversation can easily become chaotic. As the initiator of the interaction, take on the role of a moderator to ensure smooth progress.

Establishing Trust through Professional Remote Interpreters

Utilizing interpreters goes beyond mere translation of words; it fosters trust and lays the groundwork for enduring relationships and meaningful communication. Whether conducting remote business negotiations, medical consultations, or legal proceedings, leveraging professional interpreters ensures that every interaction is conducted with precision, empathy, and cultural sensitivity.
Do you want to learn more about our suggested best practices for over-the-phone or video remote interpreting? Our very own VP of Remote Services, Kim Beck, shares her tips for improving your experience when working with a remote interpreter, and she even adds a few additional fun notes! (Hint, hint…her most important tip is to remember not to be naked if you are on a video call ) Check out her video here:

Ready to chat with our team about how remote interpreting services could benefit your communications? Get started today with a free consultation!

The post Optimizing Remote Interpreting: Top 5 Best Practices appeared first on SpokenHere Language Services.

For those of you who have never used remote interpreting services before, you may be asking yourself a few questions. What is it? What is its purpose? How does it work technically? What are the business applications? Will it really help me serve my customers more effectively? We will answer all of those questions and more.

What is remote interpreting?

Remote interpreting is using a combination of off site interpreters and technology to facilitate communication between multiple people who do not speak the same language. At SpokenHere, we use cutting edge technology to connect you with a remote interpreter in the language of your choice within seconds.

We know that your business may require a certain level of confidentiality. For every call you make through our remote interpreting service, you are connected with a highly trained interpreter that is qualified to meet your specific business needs confidentially.

Purpose of remote interpreting

Remote interpreting helps you connect with people who are critical to your business and do not speak your language. It enables you to communicate with them in real-time and on demand 24/7/365 in any of 220+ languages. The world is more connected than ever before, and a different language should not be a barrier for your business’ success. Whether you need to communicate with someone halfway around the world or someone in your office, our goal is to help bridge the communication gap to help you build better relationships with them.

How does remote interpreting work?

The process of using SpokenHere’s remote interpreting service is simple and user friendly. You can connect using a standard phone, web browser or our mobile app. When connecting with our remote interpreting service, you are first asked to enter your unique PIN number and state the language you need interpreting services for. Within a few seconds, you are connected with an interpreter who will be the best fit for your needs. Once the interpreter joins the call, you speak with your other party just like you normally would. The interpreter will convey your thoughts when you pause.

Remote interpreting services for LEP

If the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) person that you are trying to communicate with is not currently in your office, then you can also use conference calling to connect with an interpreter. You could even connect with an interpreter first and have them conference the LEP person in to the call or video chat in order to further streamline communication. If the LEP person is at your location, you can just use your phone or computer’s speaker mode so that you can both hear the interpreter.

How does this help my business?

We get it, you’re running a business and remote interpreting services impact your bottom line. There are many possibilities whereby remote interpreting services can help your business run more efficiently and serve your customers and employees more effectively.

Here are a few applications for remote interpreting to help get those ideas flowing:

• Safety meetings and training
• Employee benefits and policies review
• Human resource meetings
• Customer service & support
• Healthcare provider and patient appointments
• Attorney/client meetings
• And more!

Perks and Benefits

Now that you know how remote interpreting services work and how they can help your business, we want to tell you about some of the benefits that a partnership with SpokenHere can afford you.

• Access to our large network of qualified professional interpreters
• HIPAA compliance
• Platform offering real time call logs, user segmentation and interpreter reviews
• Audio and video remote options
• American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters
• Fast connect times (under 30 seconds in most cases)
• Online training & best practices
• Dedicated account manager

Have More Questions? Contact Us

The post How do Remote Interpreting Services work? appeared first on SpokenHere Language Services.

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.

1. Instant Access– Our HIPAA compliant video remote interpreting platform connects users to professional ASL interpreters within seconds, reducing wait times and ensuring immediate communication.
2. Cost-Effective Solution– Without travel costs, two-hour minimums, or scheduling delays, VRI is a much better alternative to in-person interpretation.
3. Compliance with ADA Regulations– Many industries must provide ASL interpretation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). VRI helps businesses meet these requirements efficiently.
4. 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!

The post ASL Anytime, Anywhere: The Impact of Video Remote Interpreting appeared first on SpokenHere Language Services.

The Growing Need for Medical Interpreter Services

The United States is more linguistically diverse than ever before. Millions of patients rely on Limited English Proficiency (LEP) support when seeking healthcare. For providers, this creates both challenges and opportunities: clear communication is not only critical to patient outcomes, it is also a legal requirement under Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that language services are performed by a qualified medical interpreter. Medical interpreter services and healthcare translation services ensure accuracy, compliance, and trust—ultimately improving patient care and safety.

When a Single Word Changes Everything

Consider the case of Willie Ramirez, whose family used the Spanish word “intoxicado” while communicating with his doctor. Although “intoxicado” sounds similar to the English “intoxicated”, a linguistic idiosyncrasy known as a “false cognate” or “false friend”, it refers to anything ingested that could have made someone sick, not just drugs or alcohol. This false friend caused confusion in the doctor’s office because the family thought that Willie may have eaten something that made him ill, but the doctor heard “intoxicado” and made the diagnosis of a drug overdose.

The physician misinterpreted it as “intoxicated,” when in reality, it referred to food poisoning or other ingested illness. The resulting misdiagnosis delayed treatment for a brain hemorrhage, leaving Ramirez permanently paralyzed.

This case underscores a vital truth: accurate interpretation in medical interpretation between doctor and patient can save lives. Even a small misunderstanding can have devastating consequences. According to Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), language services performed by a qualified medical interpreter are required by law.

Who Qualifies as a Medical Interpreter

It might be tempting to rely on family, friends, or bilingual staff to interpret. However, not everyone who speaks two languages is qualified to be a medical interpreter—and in many cases, doing so introduces serious risks.

While convenient, relying on family and friends, can raise issues of accuracy, privacy, and emotional stress. In a medical emergency or traumatic event, people often revert to their native language, making it difficult to communicate clearly in a second language. Even those normally fluent may struggle under pressure, and the added emotional strain of interpreting for a loved one can compound the situation. In some cases, the only person available may be a child, which is both inappropriate and legally restricted.

Additionally, children cannot be expected to understand medical terminology or handle sensitive discussions—such as in a gynecologist’s office—without harm to both accuracy and their well-being.

Healthcare providers sometimes turn to bilingual or multilingual staff to interpret. However, unless those staff members have formal training in medical interpretation, they may lack the specialized vocabulary, medical terminology, and cultural context needed to ensure clinical accuracy.

For these reasons, Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) specifies that interpreters must be qualified. This means they must receive professional training in medical terminology, ethics, and interpretation best practices—not just rely on conversational fluency. By requiring qualified interpreters, the law helps protect both patients and providers, ensuring safe, accurate, and legally compliant care.

What the Law Requires for Medical Interpretation

Under Section 1557, patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) have the right to receive accurate and accessible language services. This means healthcare providers cannot rely on minor children as interpreters, except in emergencies, and must place strict limitations on the use of family and friends due to concerns about accuracy, privacy, and stress.

When bilingual or multilingual staff are used, they must be properly trained in medical interpretation, demonstrating oral proficiency in English and another language as well as a mastery of medical vocabulary and terminology. Conversational fluency alone does not meet the standard of care. Equally important, providers cannot require patients to bring their own interpreters or pressure them into declining professional language services. These safeguards ensure that LEP patients can access care without fear, hesitation, or compromise.

The 2024 Final Rule builds on these protections with even stronger requirements.

• Healthcare organizations must now display a Notice of Availability of free language assistance services in both English and the top 15 most common LEP languages in their state, available in person and online.
• Entities with 15 or more employees are required to appoint a Section 1557 Coordinator responsible for compliance, including grievance procedures and record keeping. The rule also reinforces that auxiliary aids and services—such as sign language interpreters, braille, captioning, or large print—must be provided at no cost to patients, including during telehealth visits.
• Healthcare providers must ensure that clinical decision-support tools, including AI-driven algorithms, do not result in discriminatory bias, safeguarding equitable treatment across all aspects of care.

Related Resource: Here

In addition, Section 1557 mandates the translation of medical documents—including consent forms, discharge instructions, and patient education materials—to ensure safe and equitable care.

Why Accuracy in Translation of Medical Documents Matters

Accurate medical translation is just as critical as spoken medical interpretation. A poorly translated pamphlet or discharge instruction can easily result in medication errors, misunderstandings, or even unnecessary re-admissions. That is why professional healthcare translation services play such a vital role in patient care. They ensure that written instructions are not only clear, but also culturally appropriate for the audience receiving them.

Professional medical translation also keeps critical medical documents compliant with HIPAA standards, reducing legal and regulatory risk. For providers, this combination of accuracy and compliance translates into better patient safety, stronger trust, and fewer liabilities.

SpokenHere provides HIPAA compliant over-the-phone interpretation (OPI) and video-remote interpretation (VRI) services for healthcare providers across the US. Our OPI and VRI services are available 24/7/365 in over 200 languages so that you can provide the highest quality care to your LEP patients. We also provide accurate medical document translation in any format that you need.

Let’s talk about building a language access plan that works for your patients and your team. Call us at (281)607-2505 or contact us online. Your information is never shared with any third-party vendors.

The post Medical Interpreter Services to Improve Patient Care appeared first on SpokenHere Language Services.

However, there are many factors you should consider before partnering with a company that provides OPI. We have created this checklist for you to reference before you make your next International Call, or communicate with diverse employee or customer bases. In this checklist, you can learn more about:

• The best practices of over-the-phone interpreting (OPI)
• Tips to save money when using OPI with your customers
• Other tips to consider when selecting an OPI provider

Download My Checklist

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