A cost effective alternative to using interpreters in person is to utilize their services over the phone and/or through other technology, such as video conferencing. Health organizations can either train their own staff to perform telephonic interpreting or contract with vendors who offer specialized medical interpretation (they only have healthcare clients) in multiple languages. Telephone interpreting can work well in cases with limited to moderate complexity and for brief interactions and appointments.

Audio Services : These are the basic telephone interpreting services. Interpreters work via telephone with patients and providers and, depending on the rarity of the language, are typically on call 24 hours a day. Dual headset telephone units or equipment with speakerphone capability are the preferred technology to allow for more effective interaction. Since both the interpreter and the provider can be listening at the same time, this allows for an almost simultaneous exchange, ensuring the interpreter is a conduit of communication rather than a messenger.

Audiovisual Services : As the name suggests, these services go beyond basic telephonic interpreting to offer videoconferencing technology. Videoconferencing interpreting uses audio and video equipment to connect the interpreter to the provider and patient. The system consists of a videoconferencing unit in an exam room and another one in an interpreter station. Each unit contains a video camera, a video monitor and a microphone. The interpreter is able to see and hear the patient and the provider at the medical appointment and, at the same time, the patient and the provider can see and hear the interpreter.

Audiovisual services often require specialized equipment and access to high-speed Internet connections capable of transmitting voice and video simultaneously with minimal delay. Many commercial telephonic interpreting vendors are now offering videoconferencing services.