FAQ
These forms of emergency communication fill the bare minimum understanding level in the most ideal situation. When clear understanding is needed, a professional sign language interpreter can bridge the gap and break down barriers in understanding. From a legal standpoint, many clients/patients cannot make clear decisions based on minimal understanding.
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Can't this patient/client just lip read?
Can't I just speak very loudly and clearly to communicate?
Can't we just write/text/message in-person back-and-forth to communicate?
An interpreter can be requested by a consumer (place of business) or by a client (Deaf/HH consumer) for best access to equal communication. This basically means that one or both parties would like to have the clearest understanding possible; breaking down language and communication barriers. Both parties have a Federal right to clear communication.
Check out this publication from the Illinois Deaf and Hard of Hearing Commission on "Understanding My Communication Rights" for federal Acts that support the use of sign language interpreters.
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Why do we need an Interpreter?
An interpreter has specialized training to work in English and Sign Language of various modes (see Q4) to facilitate communication between hearing and Deaf/HH parties. The interpreter also has tools to culturally mediate differences between the hearing and Deaf worlds (see Q5). The interpreter can really clarify and simplify communication.
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What does an Interpreter do?
Why do I see the word Deaf capitalized?
One of the most important things your Deaf/HH client wants you to know is that they don't feel like they have a disability. That is just a label to allow equalization of access; allow for laws prohibiting discrimination. This capitalization shows pride in identifying themselves within the Deaf community - they are bonded by experience and language! (This Q/A has been approved by a member of each of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community.)
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Deaf/HH individuals are (mostly) raised without the “intrinsic” knowledge that most hearing people have access to through overhearing conversations, exposure to audible media (both conscious and subconscious), and sometimes even missing everyday communication from/between parents and caregivers. There may be “common” knowledge or “pop culture” miscues that will change a basis of understanding. An interpreter can check for, and mediate, these differences in a seamless way for the best understanding between all parties.
Hearing v. Deaf?
ASL, specific mainly to sign language users in the United States, is recognized as a full language with its own grammar, structure, and associated culture. It's the 3rd most used language in the United States and has a well-established culture. “Modes” refer to the different forms of Sign Language used by the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. A Deaf/HH individual's communication can vary from region to region, based on the extent of exposure to the Deaf community (ex. in primarily Deaf social clubs), and in relation to the theory of education they experienced during their developing years. An interpreter can expertly discern the best mode for an individual once meeting and communicating with them briefly.