Assessing the Impact of Vidéo Remote Sign Language Interpreting in Healthcare: Linking Disability Studies With Empirical Challenges of Public Health Research

Background and Rationale:

In-person or VRI sign language interpretation is largely unavailable. In a scoping review, the researchers identified a knowledge gap regarding the quality of interpretation and training in sign language interpretation for health care. The researchers also found that this area is under-researched, and the evidence is scant. All available evidence came from high-income countries, which is particularly problematic given that most DHH persons live in low- and middle-income countries. Thus, the available literature shows that VRI may enable deaf users to overcome interpretation barriers and can potentially improve communication outcomes between them and health personnel within health care services. For VRI to be acceptable, sign language users require a VRI system supported by devices with large screens and a reliable internet connection, as well as qualified interpreters trained in medical interpretation. There is no clear data on the availability of VRI or in-person interpretation. Given the cost, VRI may be more available than in person. Available data tend to focus on assessing personal references of Deaf users in regards to interpretation, as well as interpreters' preferences and maximising recourses allocation.

Objective(S):

To assess the effectiveness of the VRI system in improving communication outcomes between Deaf patients and doctors Produce a VRI model addressing the challenges faced by Deaf people that will be tested, implemented, and sustained in Bogota, Colombia.

Explanation for choice of comparator