Video Remote Interpreting

Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is a service utilizing video cameras to provide sign language interpreting services without an interpreter present. A typical VRI setup involves a deaf and hearing user at one location with a camera and television screen, and an interpreter at another location, typically a call center, who also has a camera and television screen. Both cameras offer video and audio connectivity, and the interpreter facilitates communication between the deaf and hearing users who are located together. The hearing person can be heard by the remote interpreter, who interprets into sign language that the deaf person can see on the television monitor. In turn, the deaf person signs to the camera and the interpreter can see what is being said, and then voices it for the hearing person to hear.

Video Remote Interpreting is still a growing field. One of its most popular applications is in the emergency room setting in hospitals. In this setting, it is essential that the deaf patient can communicate readily with medical personnel, but it may take some time for an interpreter to arrive onsite. Hospitals with VRI technology can immediately connect with a remote interpreter and conduct triage and intake surveys with the deaf patient without any delay.

Using VRI for medical, legal and mental health settings is is controversial in the Deaf community, as many feel it doesn't provide appropriate communication access--particularly in medical settings where the patient's ability to watch the screen or sign clearly to the camera may be impaired. However, businesses and organizations argue that it greatly exceeds the minimum threshhold for reasonable accommodation.

Video Remote Interpreting is distinct from Video Relay Service (VRS) in that it is intended for users who are in the same location. According to FCC regulations, deaf and hearing people in the same room are not permitted to use VRS to communicate, because this service is not designated as receiving funding from Telecommunications Relay Service taxes. The FCC requires that if a VRS interpreter determines callers are in the same location, they must advise both parties that they need to use VRI to communicate, and the interpreter must terminate the call. Thus, VRI is only for persons in the same location, who can be seen and heard over one audiovisual connection - if users are in different locations, they should use VRS to communicate through the phone system.

The terms Video Remote Interpreting and Video Relay Service should not be confused. The latter was originally called Video Relay Interpreting, but the name was changed and now the terms refer to two separate and distinct services.

External links

* [http://www.Bisvri.com VRI provider BISVRI - Birnbaum Interpreting Services]
* [http://www.weinterpret.net/services/video_interpreting.html www.WeInterpret.Net 24 / 7 Guaranteed Availability]