vCreate video service launches multi-languages to support families with language barriers

The vCreate video system allows parents with a baby in a neonatal unit to view videos and photographs of their child through a virtual platform. The technology allows the secure sharing of videos and messages between clinical teams, patients and families to digitise the patient pathway and enhance family-integrated care (FiCare). Used in more than 200 units across the UK, the service is predominantly offered to families in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and paediatric neurology centres.

With the introduction of the new features, families can now select their language of choice when logging in to the app. This translates the entire interface and all messages to and from clinical teams, so patients and caregivers struggling with language barriers can communicate effectively with healthcare professionals.

Consultant neonatologist, Dr Neil Patel, whose team has been using the new language features to support families at the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Glasgow, says: “It’s crucial to our patients’ health and wellbeing that we can communicate with all of their families quickly and accurately.

“We understand that a stay in the NICU is a distressing experience, but it can be even more isolating and daunting for those who don't speak English. The new auto-translated messaging function in vCreate video diaries is going to be very important to help us ensure that all parents can stay connected with their babies, and are properly supported to be involved in their care on and off the unit, regardless of their language.”

The current list of integrated languages includes French, German, Italian, Polish, Spanish, Punjabi, Gujarati, Bengali, Ukrainian and Urdu and is continually growing. vCreate has also introduced an array of other features to its video services, including password-less login using face and fingerprint ID, and a user activity timeline.