As interpreters there are a number of questions people ask us fairly often. Some of those focus on interpreting and our work, and some of them focus on Deaf people and Deaf culture. We will soon begin answering some of those questions here. Please also see our links page to find other sites that have additional information.
How do I know if I am getting a qualified interpreter?
This should concern everyone who utilizes interpreting services. Unqualified individuals can give a false sense of security in an interpreting situation between people who can hear and people who can not. Vital information could be misunderstood and neither party would know. “Quality” is a word that PIE takes seriously. We ensure quality by providing nationally certified interpreters. Pre-certified interpreters are scheduled as team members with certified interpreters, upon approval or request of the consumers, and/or after after a great deal of mentoring.
Can I ask for a preferred interpreter?
PIE respects consumer preferences for specific interpreters. Every effort is made to provide consumers with preferred interpreters if the interpreter is available. Simply call the PIE office and inform us about your preferences.
Can I request an interpreter anytime, for last-minute appointments, or in emergencies?
PIE understands that not all appointments fall within the 8:00 am to 5:00 pm time frame. For that reason, our interpreters are available to meet the diverse needs of the community we serve – including during second and third shift hours. PIE has been successful at filling most last-minute requests because we work with numerous interpreters. However, since “last-minute” can mean an interpreter is needed the next day or the next hour, there is no guarantee that interpreters will be available.
Does PIE provide any specialized interpreting services?
PIE’s high standards for accuracy in interpretation apply to any and all situations. Our staff is experienced in a variety of areas including medical, mental health, technical, and legal. Because legal settings require a more stringent standard, PIE only provides interpreters with specific credentials and training. PIE also has certified Deaf interpreters (CDI) on staff.
PIE offers specialized services as needed. These services include, but are not limited to: providing trained and certified deaf individuals who work as professional interpreters, working with persons who have unique language needs, persons who are deaf-blind, and/or persons using a foreign sign language.
What is a certified Deaf interpreter and when are such services needed?
Certified Deaf Interpreters (CDI) are trained professionals who are Deaf themselves. They add a cultural and linguistic dimension to the communication that can not be duplicated by a hearing interpreter alone. Deaf interpreters make communication more effective and natural when working in unique situations. Deaf interpreters work in any setting, as needed.
How do I schedule interpreting services and how much does it cost?
You can contact PIE using a variety of methods, telephone, fax, website or email. An Interpreter Coordinator will gather information about the request. The first time you contact PIE our coordinators will establish a pay agreement with your agency. After that process is complete, we will inform you of the cost for services and contact you to confirm services for that appointment. Once you have established a pay agreement with PIE you or any other member of your staff can contact our office to schedule interpreting services at anytime.
PIE does not have a “minimum” fee. Time is billed in half-hour increments, portal to portal. Appointments lasting two hours or more generally require a team of two interpreters. If your plans change, PIE does require notification at least two full business days in advance to avoid a cancellation charge.
Who typically pays for interpreting services?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) states that all public entities are required to provide “...auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication with deaf and hard of hearing people.” The regulation also explicitly states that auxiliary aids and services may not be financed by a surcharge on the disabled individual. The cost of providing sign language interpreters for deaf clients is part of the cost of doing business; it is similar to the cost of a ramp, elevator, disabled parking place or other physical accessibility feature, but may not be passed on to clients with disabilities. PIE can also refer you to resources (upon request) to explain how the ADA applies to your situation as you make your services available to people who are Deaf, deafblind, or hard of hearing.
