10 Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) Questions Answered

This article originally appeared on Rapport International and has been republished with permission.

What is VRI?

VRI stands for Video Remote Interpreting. This a type of interpreting service that is delivered via a live-streamed video call as opposed to a telephone call or in-person appointment. This service is ideal when it’s not feasible to have an onsite/in-person interpreter there, but you still want to have a visual connection to the interpreter.

Why use VRI vs. phone or in-person interpreting?

VRI is ideal for short appointments when an in-person interpreter is not an option and when a telephone call isn’t personal enough. Also, because you only pay for the time you are on the call, it is more cost-effective for shorter appointments since in-person interpreters are billed on an hourly basis.

Here are some pros for using VRI:

• This service is available on-demand without pre-scheduling – this makes it great for emergency rooms or minute clinics where people don't have appointments.
• It’s a mid-level option – it bridges the gap between the personal touch of in-person interpreting and phone interpreting.
• It can save you money on short appointments – you won’t pay travel charges associated with in-person interpreters.
• Visual cues are important – VRI offers enhanced accuracy over phone interpreting because the interpreter can see facial expressions and body language.

What equipment or programs do I need for VRI?

No special equipment is needed, you can use any internet-connected device with a camera – like a laptop with a webcam or a tablet/phone with a front-facing camera. The service is accessible through a hyperlink you can save to your Android device or computer’s desktop or bookmarks.

The video and audio are clear and high-quality.

How does VRI work?

Connecting to an interpreter is quick and easy.

1. Click the link.
2. Enter your account/billing information.
3. Connect to an interpreter in the right language.
4. Sign out when the appointment is done.
5. Rate the call to provide us feedback on your experience (optional).

Is VRI secure and private?

Absolutely! Rapport International’s VRI service utilizes the best security protocols available with a private, encrypted network for the highest data protection. The service is 100% HIPAA compliant, so you can be confident that your patient’s data is secure.

What languages are available and when?

American Sign Language (ASL):

Language offerings include spoken languages, as described below, as well as American Sign Language (ASL). ASL interpreters can be difficult to find in your local community. VRI services for ASL give a great alternative to in-person interpreters for your deaf and hard-of-hearing clients and patients. They’re available anytime, anywhere you have the equipment available 24 hours per day, 365 days per year.

Spoken Languages:

Spanish and American Sign Language are available 24 hours a day 365 days a year. The other languages currently available* (as of this writing) for VRI are available Monday – Friday from 5 am - 7 pm PST:

• Arabic
• Bosnian
• Burmese
• Cantonese
• Farsi
• French
• Haitian Creole
• Hmong
• Karen
• Korean
• Mandarin
• Nepali
• Polish
• Portuguese (Brazil)
• Punjabi
• Romanian
• Russian
• Somali
• Swahili
• Vietnamese

*More languages are continually being added, so please contact us to ask about any language not listed.

Is VRI compatible with our other technologies and systems?

Our VRI platform leverages Bluestream Health’s technology, which means our solution offers more than just interpreting. Bluestream is a cloud-based telemedicine platform that delivers a two-way audio and video connection to patients, their family members, or clinicians on demand. The Bluestream system is compatible with leading telehealth platforms and Electronic Health Records (EHRs).

How long does it take to get set up and connected to an interpreter?

Once you request an account for VRI services, we will gather all the necessary information and initiate account activation. It will take approximately 3 days to activate your account.

When you use your account, it takes an average of 3 minutes to connect to an interpreter.

What does VRI cost?

There are many cost advantages of using VRI vs. in-person interpreters. Live interpretation has minimum charges, and sometimes you have to pay travel and mileage fees if there is no interpreter in your area. Canceling a live interpreter at the last minute results in charges or cancelation fees, you don't get charged for these with VRI.

When you utilize your account, you are charged a low per-minute rate (some minimums may apply) while accessing all the advantages a premium service such as VRI has to offer.?

How do I get started?

Contact us and request more information about VRI. We will contact you within 24 hours to answer your questions, or if you’re ready to get started, we’ll gather the information we need to sign you up.

Consider these factors when deciding who to choose for your interpretation services.?

Rapport International specializes in multilingual communications, providing language translation and interpretation services that are accurate and culturally appropriate. We use the right voice, correct terminology to avoid liability, customize services to your needs, and deliver on time and within your budget. And with our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust that it’s done right. Contact us today if you would like more information or to get a free quote.

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