Research Article: Experiences with remote interpreting tools in primary care settings: a qualitative evaluation of the implementation and usage of remote interpreting tools during a feasibility trial in Germany
Abstract:
Objective This study aims to evaluate the usage and implementation of video remote (VR) interpreting and telephone remote (TR) interpreting in primary healthcare settings. Design This publication forms part of a larger three-pronged study in which we compared both remote interpreting modalities to each other and to a control group. This paper conveys the findings of the qualitative evaluation of the implementation and usage of both remote interpreting solutions. The quantitative evaluation of the 6-month intervention period (September 2018–February 2019) has been reported previously. After this period, we conducted focus groups with the healthcare professionals involved. The focus groups were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using the structured qualitative content analysis. Setting We provided either VR or TR tools to 10 different primary healthcare practices (general medicine, gynaecology and paediatrics) in the city of Hamburg, Germany. Participants Three physicians and two physician’s assistants took part in the TR focus group. The VR focus group consisted of four physicians. Results The main topics identified were the importance of communication for diagnostic and therapeutic processes, previous solutions to language barriers, as well as advantages and disadvantages of the two remote interpreting solutions. Advantages included the possibility to adequately communicate with language discordant patients and the high quality of the interpreting. Disadvantages included the habituation time required for new technology as well as time constraints. Conclusion Our evaluation found that these solutions were highly appreciated, if not considered indispensable, for the delivery of appropriate medical care to language-discordant patients. Differences between the two modalities were named and concrete suggestions for improvement were made. Policy-makers should consider providing VR or TR as an adequate and safe interpreting service alternative when professional in-person interpreters are not available or too expensive.
Introduction:
Recent global migration trends have led to more diverse populations than ever and a further noticeable increase in the estimated number of international migrants, 1 have had a significant impact on modern medical care. More than 20?million people with a migratory background live in Germany, 2 already making it the second most frequent destination for migrants worldwide. Therefore, it has become increasingly relevant to German medical experts to address the provision of medical services to refugees, immigrants and…
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