BMC Health Services Research Regulation, modification, and evolution of remote sign language interpreting in Sweden – a work in progress

Abstract

Background The sign language interpreting service has undergone a tremendous change due to COVID-19 as remote interpreting has become a more frequent alternative to the on-site face-to-face format. The aim of the study is to investigate the interpreters’ experience of the remote interpreting organisation in Sweden and how it evolved since the COVID-19 pandemic. Method Interviews with 26 experienced remote interpreters, representing 19 of Sweden’s 21 counties, were analysed with qualitative content analysis. Results Three themes were revealed in the analysis. The first theme was regulation. It was stated that directives and regulatory decisions concerning provision of remote interpreting services were varied and unclear. Several different platforms were used when interpreting remotely. Some of the services had conducted risk analyses, whereas others had not. The second theme was modification, including adjusting interactions to suit users’ preferences and capabilities, as well as adjustments to work environments and workplaces. The third theme, evolution of remote interpreting, showed that support and training were rare and varied. The organisation of remote interpreting appears to be a work in progress across Sweden, but it is a way of interpreting that is here to stay. Conclusions In Sweden, remote interpreting is a service that varies according to regulations and organisation of the assignments. The service seems to benefit from being more uniform and streamlined across Sweden, although consideration must be given to those involved with the service.