When communicating with most Deaf individuals, the use of lip reading alone is not adequate because of the large number of words that look alike on the lips. In tests, using simple sentences, Deaf people recognize perhaps three or four words in every sample. Deaf individuals are faced with this frustration daily. It is important to remember that not all Deaf persons use the same mode of communication. Sign language or oral interpreters are trained professionals who provide the necessary communication link between hearing people and Deaf or hard of hearing individuals.
Interpreters facilitate communication for both parties involved with the conversation.
Interpreters are not simply individuals who know sign language. They are professionals who generally receive training from an interpreter training program and are certified by the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf or other accrediting agencies. Sign language interpreters change the signed message into spoken English for the hearing consumer. They also use sign language to relay the spoken message for the consumer who is Deaf or hard of hearing. Oral interpreters work with consumers who are Deaf or hard of hearing and rely solely on speechreading for communication.