NEW TELEHEALTH VIDEO INTERPRETING SERVICE

The Australian Government’s Translating and Interpreting Service, TIS National, has launched a new video interpreting service to help non-English speaking patients access telehealth consultations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new telehealth video interpreting service was developed in response to a growing demand for online services during the pandemic.

It allows medical professionals to book an interpreter remotely to assist during video consultations with patients with limited or no English-language skills.

Acting Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge said the service was already predominately being used by people locked down in Victoria, with the most common languages requested being Vietnamese, Arabic, Mandarin, Greek, Italian and Farsi.

“The new telehealth video interpreting service adds another level of useability to TIS National which is already providing critical telephone interpreting services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, right across Australia,” Mr Tudge said.

“The video service will make it easier for medical professionals to connect with their patients, while enabling the COVID-safe delivery of vital health services.

“Importantly, it will reduce the risk of community transmission of COVID-19 and provide protection for patients, healthcare providers and interpreters.”

TIS National connects government, businesses, and the Australian community through the provision of credentialed and secure interpreting services in more than 140 languages. TIS National has a panel of over 2300 interpreters, who are Australian permanent residents or citizens.