In an innovative step towards eliminating language and cultural barriers, Hinchingbrooke and Peterborough City Hospitals in Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom, have implemented the LanguageLine Rolling Cart service.
Following a successful trial this past summer in their emergency departments in which care was enhanced and waiting times reduced, this groundbreaking tool is now set to become a permanent fixture in these institutions, with plans to expand its use to Stamford and Rutland Hospital as well.
Bridging Gaps with Technology
The LanguageLine Rolling Cart is a state-of-the-art touch-screen tool mounted on trolleys, equipped with iPads, and the LanguageLine mobile app.
Alex Papp, the service coordinator for North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust's linguistic and interpretation department, highlighted the device's capability to connect staff with live interpreters both domestically and internationally, offering immediate interpretation in more than 240 languages, in less than 30 seconds.
“This technology has had an immediate impact on our ability to communicate with patients who do not speak English,” Papp said. “This rapid connection to professional interpreters, who are versed in medical terminology, is crucial for delivering timely and accurate care.”
A Multifaceted Solution
The service isn't limited to voice calls; it extends to video calls with interpreters for 42 of the 240 available languages, including British Sign Language. This feature is particularly significant, as it encompasses a broader spectrum of patient needs, including those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH).
The LanguageLine Rolling Cart's introduction initially targeted Hinchingbrooke and Peterborough’s emergency departments, where the immediacy of communication can be life-saving. Its success in these high-pressure settings speaks volumes about its efficacy and the potential benefits it holds for other departments across the hospitals.
Designed for Efficiency
One of the most notable aspects of the LanguageLine Rolling Cart is its design. Engineered to navigate the bustling corridors of hospitals effortlessly, it embodies practicality and efficiency. The cart is also equipped with the TrueSound audio-amplification enclosure, which boosts the iPad's volume without the need for wires, batteries, or charging, ensuring clear communication between healthcare providers and patients.
Complementing the rolling cart, the LanguageLine App allows healthcare professionals to overcome language barriers anytime, anywhere. This digital solution empowers staff to connect with over 20,000 professionally trained audio and video interpreters through most popular digital devices, offering 24/7 support.
A Trusted Partner in Healthcare
LanguageLine’s commitment to providing quality care in the languages patients prefer is reflected in its widespread adoption by leading healthcare institutions. With 94% of Fortune 100 healthcare companies and 18 of the top 20 US hospitals relying on our expertise, LanguageLine is a trusted partner in the mission to deliver equitable healthcare services.
