TRINITY, TEXAS - The ETMC First Physicians clinic in Trinity
recently utilized NexTalk, a system that allows deaf or
hard-of-hearing patients immediate access to easy-to-use, on-demand
video sign language interpreters -- making it the first in the ETMC
Regional Healthcare System to do so.
"The NexTalk system allowed us to properly communicate with the
patient so we could provide the best possible medical care," said
ETMC Trinity Administrator Brett Kirkham. "Our patient was relieved
to learn that we were equipped to meet and exceed the needs of the
hearing impaired."
Through the use of a specially equipped lap-top computer, the
patient is able to actually see the interpreter and vice versa.
"This enables the patient to feel like they are part of their
treatment," Kirkham said. "The Skype-type communication allows
everyone to be part of the conversations regarding the patient's
condition and treatment."
Using a simple software-based system, NexTalk provides virtually
instant access to certified interpreters at the click of a button.
The system required no additional phone lines or special equipment
for operation of the text telephone (TTY) and/or telecommunication
device for the deaf (TDD). NexTalk has a 20-year history of
providing communication solutions to support the deaf and hard of
hearing.
NexTalk, offered through SpectraCorp, also provides other
software-based solutions including video remote interpreting (VRI),
video relay service calls (VRS) and text-relay service calls (TRS).
According to company representatives, the system works in
conjunction with in-house, local and national interpreting
networks.