ASL Interpreting for
Medical and Health Care
On-site Medical ASL Interpreting
The ability for deaf or hard-of-hearing consumers to communicate with their health care providers is essential. Clear communication ensures safe medical treatment and can help to avoid misunderstandings. A qualified medical sign language interpreter can facilitate communication. This can be beneficial whether the patient is the deaf consumer, a relative, or a companion who is involved in the patient’s health care decisions.
Request an ASL Interpreter
How do I know if I need to request an Interpreter?
Sign language interpreters are a vital part of any communication-based situation. They provide an effective way to exchange important information. Here are some examples of situations that may require a Medical ASL Interpreter:
- Taking a patient’s medical history
- Giving diagnoses
- Performing medical procedures
- Explaining treatment planning
- Explaining medicine prescription and regimen
- Providing patient education or counseling
- Describing discharge and follow up plans
- Admitting to emergency departments/urgent care
Are there laws that require an interpreter in medical situations?
Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to all private health care providers. This includes providers of both physical and mental health care, regardless of size or number of employees. Hospitals, nursing homes, psychiatric and psychological services, offices of private physicians, dentists, health maintenance organizations (HMOs), and health clinics are included among the providers covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Utilizing a qualified sign language interpreter helps ensure that the health care provider is compliant with the ADA. It also allows the deaf or hard of hearing patient to be knowledgeable and fully participate in health care treatment decisions. A qualified interpreter is able to interpret effectively, accurately, and impartially, both receptively and expressively, using any necessary specialized vocabulary.
Having a qualified interpreter in a medical setting is of paramount importance for all parties involved. Medical staff who are unable to communicate with patients may face serious consequences. Misdiagnosing medical problems and prescribing inadequate or even harmful treatment could result in serious complications. Similarly, patients may not understand medical instructions and warnings or prescription guidelines. It is essential that all patients are able to communicate with their medical providers. ASL Medical Interpreting services provide an effective means for patients who are deaf or hard of hearing to communicate. By providing ASL interpreters in hospitals and clinics, they can ensure that all patients receive the same high level of care.
AIDeaf has the experience and knowledge to provide the effective communication needed. They ensure that all parties have the same understanding of medical procedures and treatments. Their goal is to make communication accessible and remove any communication barriers. This fosters a more seamless and positive patient experience for all involved.