Mission Type: Quality
Mission Status: Mission Planning
Published: June 30, 2023
Last Updated: May 5, 2025

Harnessing Technology for Language Equality

The absence of translated resources for families with limited proficiency in English can significantly affects health outcomes and creates inequity in our client experience.

Harnessing Technology

When families are unable to access vital information and resources in their preferred language, their ability to navigate and comprehend crucial healthcare-related matters becomes compromised. This language barrier hinders effective communication, impedes shared decision-making, and undermines the overall quality of care provided. As a result, these families are disproportionately disadvantaged, facing greater challenges in accessing appropriate healthcare services and achieving positive health outcomes.

Problem

KidsAbility recognizes that language acts as a significant barrier for newcomer families who are not fluent in English. While live language interpretation facilitates two-way conversations, the lack of translated written resources creates an inequity. Families are unable to access crucial information related to therapy and their child’s care due to language limitations. This issue was raised by one of our Speech-Language Pathologists, who emphasized the need to address this language gap urgently and effectively.

Solution

To resolve the language barrier, KidsAbility is collaborating with MedInclude, a start-up based in Waterloo. Together, they have initiated a pilot project using MedInclude’s specialized online platform for written translation, specifically in the health field. This platform harnesses the power of machine learning and large language models to enable real-time translation. The platform will allow therapists to translate written information into more than 40 languages, ensuring that follow-up emails, personalized recommendations, and home programs are accessible to families in their preferred language. By utilizing cutting-edge technology, KidsAbility aims to achieve equity for newcomer families, empowering them to engage meaningfully in therapy and make informed decisions regarding their child’s care, regardless of language barriers.

Our Project Crew

Cynthia Lennon

Clinical Innovation Specialist

Seun Adetunji

Nadia Jafri

Our Partners

About KidsAbility

KidsAbility™ empowers children and youth with special needs to realize their full potential.

We support over 17,000 children and youth to reach their communication, social, physical and behavioural goals each year. Using a blended model of virtual and in-person services, at KidsAbility, we help children, youth and families to achieve great things at home, at school and in their community.

Demand for our services continues to exceed the resources available. The Rocket Discovery Centre is a symbol of our commitment to children and families that no child in our community will be left behind. Donations support life-changing therapy, innovative programs and the latest technology. Your support helps a child benefit sooner to say their first words, take their first steps, hold a pencil or spoon, or even learn how to make a new friend and participate fully in our community. Together, we can achieve this.

Harnessing Technology for Language Equality