You’ve decided you need an interpreter to assist you in communicating with your client or patient; now it’s time to determine what type of interpreting service would work best. In-person, phone, and video interpreting are great options, but each is appropriate in a different scenario.
Here are some factors that may help you decide which format will work for your needs:
In-Person Interpreting
PROS:
- Helpful if you need an interpreter for an extended period.
- Easier for reviewing complex content or when things need to be explained in great detail.
- No need for technology like a computer, a tablet, or other hardware.
- Better for going over sensitive information like mental health, or end of life, or surgery.
- Good choice when using visual cues or if body language is important.
- More personal.
CONS:
- Slightly more expensive since person has to be there. You may have to pay for a minimum number of hours and travel expenses.
- Availability can be an issue. Is the language you need available in the area? Is there an interpreter available at the time you need them?
- Appointments must be made in advance.
Phone Interpreting
PROS:
- Perfect option for short notice, quick appointments.
- Good for calling patients or clients to give lab results or make appointments.
- Most inexpensive option as calls are billed by minute with no minimum charge.
- Every language can be accessed.
CONS:
- Impersonal for both parties.
- No visual cues available.
- Must speak into the phone, which is limiting in many scenarios. Speaker phone can be hard to hear.
- Confusing for interpreter if there is more than one person in the room.
Video Interpreting
PROS:
- This service is great for emergency rooms or minute clinics where people don't have appointments.
- It bridges the gap between the personal touch of in-person interpreting and phone interpreting.
- Typically, it’s less expensive than on-site interpreting - smaller time minimums and no travel charges.
- Offers enhanced accuracy over phone interpreting because you can see facial expressions and some visual cues.
- Available on short notice, and more languages are available because they don't have to be local.
CONS:
- Technology is required; a computer, tablet, or special equipment. If technology isn't working correctly, the appointment will not be feasible.
- Internet hook-up speed must meet specific requirements.
- Possible delay or lag which could affect the flow of conversation.
- The interpreter can't see everything happening in the room, so some cues may be missed.
- Difficulty positioning camera for best view of everyone in the room.
- Possibly not hearing everything if people aren't speaking directly into the microphone. Details could be missed.
- Set up costs involved.