// Boots has introduced an on-demand interpretation service that can translate 245 languages
// Currently being trialled across 5 stores in Belfast, Birmingham, central London, Leicester & Southampton.
// It aims to make healthcare more accessible for non-English speaking pharmacy patients
Boots has introduced an on-demand interpretation service to make healthcare more accessible for non-English speaking pharmacy patients.
The free service is currently being trialled across five stores, whereby staff and patients access it it via an in-store iPad to connect with interpreters who can translate more than 245 languages.
The locations of branches trialling the interpretation service are:
- Donegal Place, Belfast
- High Street, Birmingham
- Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London
- Gallowtree Gate, Leicester
- Above Bar Street, Southampton.
The interpretation service is being provided by US-based firm Voyce.
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“Boots has been at the forefront of health innovation for 170 years,” Boots pharmacy director Richard Bradley said.
“This pilot scheme is a great example of how technology can help us drive better patient outcomes through a simple, innovative service that will help our pharmacy teams make sure that our patients get the most from their medicines, without language as a barrier.”
Boots said that according to census data from 2011 there are an estimated 726,000 people living in England and Wales who speak English, but not well, and 138,000 people who are unable to speak English at all.
The pilot is part of Boots’ wider pharmacy transformation plans, which includes a free online prescription service via the Boots app and website.
The health and beauty chain is also rolling out “express” collection lanes in 600 branches and a prescription locker trial.
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