WHERE IS LTC LOCATED?

Our global headquarters is in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also have a satellite office in Orlando, Florida.

WHERE ARE LTC SERVICES OFFERED?

Since LTC offers interpretation services in person, by phone, and via Video Remote Interpreting, our interpreters can serve you practically anywhere in the world. If we can’t get an interpreter on-site, you need only a phone line or an Internet connection to work with us.

WHAT IS THE AMOUNT OF NOTICE NEEDED FOR A REQUEST?

For local needs, we can provide an interpreter within an hour. For international/long-term needs, a 2 week notice is needed.

WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?

48 hours for request of 8 hours or less. Policy varies from 1 to 3 weeks for international/long-term needs.

CAN INTERPRETERS INTERPRET INTO MULTIPLE LANGUAGES?

Typically, no. We recruit interpreters who possess extensive productive and comprehension skills in both English and the target language in a specific industry, and it is very rare that we would have a need to utilize an interpreter with the same skill set in a 3rd language.

WHAT REQUIREMENTS DOES LTC HAVE FOR INTERPRETERS?

Interpreters must be balanced or close to balanced bilinguals, have extensive vocabulary knowledge in at least one target industry, complete all onboarding requirements (such as a background check and TB test), and go through LTC’s orientation program and basic interpreting training.

HOW DOES LTC EVALUATE INTERPRETERS’ SKILLS?

LTC Interpreters go through a series of interviews with LTC staff. We also do an assessment of their language skills prior to placing them on a project. To learn more about the rigorous process all LTC interpreters undergo, click here.

WHAT IS VIDEO REMOTE INTERPRETING (VRI)?

VRI combines the power and versatility of the Internet and remotely located professional interpreters to provide immediate, convenient interpreting services between individuals who are in the same room. Because it’s highly visual, this is the closest option available to face-to-face interpreting. We’re able to offer around-the-clock access, and VRI is available for ASL and foreign languages.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TRANSLATORS AND INTERPRETERS?

Interpretation involves comprehension and production of the spoken word from one language to another so that a spoken conversation can be understood between two or more parties. An interpreter actively listens and speaks two languages in order to communicate with two or more parties who cannot on their own communicate with each other using a mutual language.

Translation, on the other hand, strictly deals with written communication. A translator takes source language from one written document and produces that same written message in the target language. Translators prepare translations of both paper based and electronic messages—but all of these are written messages.

While some people have the linguistic skills to be both interpreters and translators, interpretation and translation require exclusive skill sets, and are, in fact, two separate specialties.

WHAT IS CONSECUTIVE INTERPRETATION?

The most common mode of interpretation, consecutive interpretation takes place after the source speaker has finished their thought or their entire sentence. Typically in consecutive interpretation, a rhythm must be established between the speaker and the interpreter to allow frequent pauses for the interpreter to speak. This method is often used in one-on-one meetings, doctor’s appointments, court hearings, and interviews.

WHAT IS SIMULTANEOUS INTERPRETATION?

Simultaneous interpreters interpret as the speaker talks, without pauses. This can be very difficult and requires specialized skills and training. Headsets or other electronic transmitters are often used. This type of interpreting is utilized mainly at conferences and on guided tours, in addition to being used by the United Nations.

WHAT IS ESCORT INTERPRETATION?

Used when one individual or group needs personal interpreting, your escort interpreter will accompany you to a meeting or throughout your daily activities. This mode of interpretation is less formal than other forms. The interpreter is available on an as-needed basis.

WHAT IS PHONE INTERPRETATION?

This easy-to-use method utilizes the consecutive interpretation style. An experienced, qualified interpreter is accessible at a moment’s notice (usually within 15 seconds or less) for immediate interpretation needs. It requires very little setup and there are no activation fees. Available in all major world languages, it’s also used as a substitute for a live interpreter when a face-to-face interpreter is unavailable.

DO I NEED A LOGIN AND/OR CLIENT ID NUMBER TO ACCESS SERVICES?

Yes. You will receive a username (tied to an email address) and password when you become a LTC VRI client. Your organization can have as many logins as you need to help with usage tracking for locations or departments.

WHAT EQUIPMENT DO I NEED FOR VIDEO REMOTE INTERPRETATION?

A high-speed Internet connection (hard-wired recommended), a web camera, and a PC.

DO YOU PROVIDE 24 HOUR INTERPRETATION SERVICES?

Yes, 24-hour onsite interpreting is available in the Indianapolis area. Call 317-578-4577 for weekend and overnight emergencies. For emergencies outside Indianapolis, phone and VRI services are available.

WHAT IF NO INTERPRETERS ARE AVAILABLE FOR THE LANGUAGE I AM REQUESTING?

If no interpreters are available when you make a request, contact LTC at 317-578-4577 and we will get an interpreter for you on VRI immediately.

IS VRI HIPAA-COMPLIANT?

Yes. VRI is HIPAA-compliant and has been implemented and used in hospitals all across the country.