Provincial Medical Sign Language Interpreting Service

09/21/2026

This week marks International Week of the Deaf, and we're highlighting an initiative at BC Emergency Health Services that is helping make health care more accessible for Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing patients.

This spring, BCEHS equipped more than 1,000 in-ambulance laptops with a Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) app, giving paramedics real-time access to American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters when communicating with patients.

While VRI has been available on in-ambulance iPhones since 2020, adding the app to laptops provides a larger screen, making sign language communication clearer and easier to follow for both patients and paramedics.

“The app is an incredible resource,” says Chris Michel, BCEHS paramedic. “Being able to communicate in a patient’s primary language helps us better understand their needs, build trust, and provide the best possible care. I use it at every opportunity and it’s a great step toward more accessible communication in health care.”

VRI services are available on demand for Deaf, Deaf-Blind and Hard of Hearing patients, with interpreters typically joining a video call in less than a minute when language access support is needed.

Video:

Paramedics have a new way to communicate with patients who are Dea...

09/16/2026

(ASL Version: https://vimeo.com/1227502456/d3eff94d43?fl=pl&fe=sh)

INFO SESSION

Learn about the new patient online booking system

Provincial Language Services (PLS) has launched Communication Access Services (CAS), a new online booking system that makes it easier for patients to request services such as sign language interpreting, intervenor services, and Communication Access
Real-time Translation.

What’s new?
• Appointment reminders by email and text message
• Ability to track service requests
• Centralized provincial coordination of services

Starting October 5, 2026, all service requests will be coordinated through PLS.

Event details

Join our hybrid information session to learn about CAS, ask questions, and meet the PLS team.

When: Thursday, October 1, 2026 at 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm (doors open at 5:30 pm)
Where: 1795 Willingdon Avenue, Burnaby, BC or online via Zoom

RSVP online by September 29 - https://surveys.vch.ca/08CD9D51-2BB2-4808-AB73-A014E7A6CE1E

For more information, contact [email protected].

09/01/2026

This spring, BC Emergency Health Services equipped more than 1,000 in-ambulance laptops with a Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) app, giving paramedics real-time access to American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters when communicating with patients.

While VRI has been available on in-ambulance iPhones since 2020, adding the app to laptops provides a larger screen, making sign language communication clearer and easier to follow for both patients and paramedics.

“The app is an incredible resource,” says Chris Michel, BCEHS paramedic. “Being able to communicate in a patient’s primary language helps us better understand their needs, build trust, and provide the best possible care. I use it at every opportunity and it’s a great step toward more accessible communication in health care.”

VRI services are available on demand for Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing patients, with interpreters typically joining a video call in less than a minute when language access support is needed.

Video:

Paramedics have a new way to communicate with patients who are Dea...

08/31/2026

This spring, BC Emergency Health Services equipped more than 1,000 in-ambulance laptops with a Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) app, giving paramedics real-time access to American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters when communicating with patients.

While VRI has been available on in-ambulance iPhones since 2020, adding the app to laptops provides a larger screen, making sign language communication clearer and easier to follow for both patients and paramedics.

“The app is an incredible resource,” says Chris Michel, BCEHS paramedic. “Being able to communicate in a patient’s primary language helps us better understand their needs, build trust, and provide the best possible care. I use it at every opportunity and it’s a great step toward more accessible communication in health care.”

VRI services are available on demand for Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing patients, with interpreters typically joining a video call in less than a minute when language access support is needed.

Video:

Paramedics have a new way to communicate with patients who are Dea...

06/12/2026

Working with Provincial Language Services (PLS) is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to support patients and families by ensuring clear, accurate, and compassionate communication in health care settings across British Columbia.

As part of PHSA, one of BC’s largest employers, PLS offers province-wide programs, services, and operations. You’ll find a culture of teamwork, professionalism, and—most importantly—a chance to build a meaningful, life-changing career.

Interested in becoming a Health Care Interpreter?

Check out our qualifications and requirements here:https://www.phsa.ca/provincial-language-service-site/Documents/ASL%20Interpreter%20Qualifications%205.pdf

If interested, please apply online: https://surveys.vch.ca/aeaf5c56-e34a-4617-b473-23cee59094ca

06/04/2026

PLS Is Hiring!
Provincial Language Services (PLS) is expanding and looking for Deaf Interpreters and Registered Sign Language Interpreters to support our growing, province‑wide workforce across British Columbia.

Why Join PLS?
Make a meaningful impact by supporting equitable access to health care

Take on assignments that influence communities across the province

Earn competitive fees

Enjoy flexible scheduling—set the hours that work for you

Access training and ongoing professional development

Benefit from well‑being supports, including debriefing services

Who We’re Looking For
Interpreters with WAVLI membership in good standing

Individuals who meet ASLPI requirements

Professionals with community‑based interpreting experience

Health‑care interpreting experience is an asset

Ready to Apply?
Submit your application here:
https://surveys.vch.ca/AEAF5C56-E34A-4617-B473-23CEE59094CA

Help us strengthen accessibility and build a more inclusive health‑care system in BC.

06/04/2026

PLS is Recruiting!

Provincial Language Services (PLS) is now recruiting Deaf Interpreters and Registered Sign Language Interpreters to support a growing, province-wide workforce in British Columbia.

Why join PLS?
• Make a difference by advancing equitable access to health care
• Take on meaningful assignments with province-wide impact
• Earn competitive fees
• Enjoy flexibility—set your own schedule
• Access training and professional development
• Support your well-being with debriefing services

We’re looking for interpreters who:
• Hold WAVLI membership in good standing
• Meet ASLPI requirements
• Have community-based interpreting experience
• Have health care experience an asset

Ready to apply?
Apply here: https://surveys.vch.ca/AEAF5C56-E34A-4617-B473-23CEE59094CA

Help us build a more accessible and inclusive health care system.

05/06/2026

Provincial Language Services would like to recognize and celebrate our health care interpreters for their incredible work.

Every day, they help break down language barriers and ensure equitable access to care for patients across our health system. Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients, families, and care teams.

Thank you for all that you do to support clear communication and better health outcomes for everyone. 💙

04/23/2026

ASL Video: https://vimeo.com/1185724663?fl=ml&fe=ec

This summer, patients will be able to book language services directly through Provincial Language Services (PLS) using a new process, which is simple, fast, and reliable. As part of this change, PLS will also begin managing ASL interpreting services in-house.

Language services include:
-- Health care interpreting (including ASL)
-- Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART)
-- Intervenor services

What does this mean for patients?
-- A fast and reliable booking process
-- Clear communication and support
-- Consistency and fairness across all language access services

These changes will happen in steps. More details will be shared as they are confirmed.

**For our Deaf‑Blind community, PLS will connect with the Deaf‑Blind Planning Committee to arrange an in-person meeting to discuss the content of this announcement.

This is "Changes coming to PLS language service bookings" by PHSA on Vimeo, the home for high quality videos and the people who love them.