Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you have a question regarding services offered by the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, or questions relating to deafness or hearing loss that is not listed below please fill out the on-line submit form.
- Frequently Asked Questions On-Line Submit Form
- Questions Relating to Sign Language Interpreters/Interpreting Services
- Questions That Have Already Been Submitted
Questions That Have Already Been Submitted
Assistive Listening Equipment
- Where can I get my TTY/Amplified phone repaired?
- If I cannot afford to buy my own TTY or phone amplifier where can I get financial assistance?
- Where can I get a TTY or amplified phone while my equipment is being repaired?
- What is a Pocketalker?
- Suppose I would like to test a Pocketalker, where can I get one to loan?
- I got a phone at NCDHH, but it isn’t working anymore. Can you come fix it or get me a new one?
- NCDHH coordinates a program that offers free phones? What is the catch?
- What is a CapTel phone?
- What is Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)?
Basics of Deaf Culture and Hearing Loss
- What language do deaf adults and children use to communicate?
- What is ASL?
- What is the history of ASL?
- What is SEE?
- What is Pidgin?
- What is Gestuno?
Business-Related Deaf/Hearing Loss Issues
- Does Nebraska require Interpreters to be licensed? If so, how does one obtain a license?
- Does the Commission ever ask Agency/Businesses to complete Evaluation Forms?
- We would like to have a sign language class taught to employees of our small business/agency. Who do I contact?
- We would like to have someone come teach a basic sign language course to our State of Nebraska agency (or commission) for communication purposes. Can NCDHH help?
- I work at a hotel. How do we accommodate our deaf and hard of hearing guests?
Cochlear Implants
- What is a cochlear implant?
- Who makes cochlear implants?
- How do I know if I qualify for a cochlear implant?
- Does Medicare or insurance cover cochlear implants?
Communication with Doctors
- I have difficulties communicating with my doctor and need a sign language interpreter, what do I do?
- What do I do if the Doctor’s office refuses to hire an interpreter?
- I am going to have surgery, what do I need to do to ensure effective communication at the hospital?
- My doctor has diagnosed me with a hearing loss. What services are available for hard of hearing people?
Communication with Police
- I was issued a ticket for a violation and must appear in court. What do I do to make sure that I have effective communication in the courtroom?
- If I am stopped by a police officer for speeding, is the officer required by law to provide a sign language interpreter?
- If I am arrested for anything, do I needed a sign language interpreter?
- When would a police officer use an assistive listening device as a communication aid?
- When a sign language interpreter is needed, how do police departments locate one?
Hearing Aids
- Where can I receive financial assistance for a hearing aid?
- I just bought two hearing aids, and I want help paying for them. Do you have a program that will provide financial assistance?
Issues for Deaf/Hard of Hearing Individuals
- I am a deaf/hearing client and would like to comment about a specific interpreter is there a form. Can I do that?
- I live in rural Nebraska. Whom do I contact for deaf or hard of hearing assistance in my area?
- An interpreter didn't show up at my appointment. I confirmed the appointment well in advance. What are my options?
- Can NCDHH keep a record, as a deaf person, of my preferred interpreters?
- I will be attending a workshop and prefer to utilize CART. What should I do?
- I have a hearing loss and use assistive listening devices. Does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) still apply to me?
- I have a dog that I want trained as a hearing dog. Where can I go?
Service-Related Questions
- What is a Relay System?
- What is the Nebraska Equipment Distribution Program?
- I am a hearing person and need to talk with someone who is deaf by telephone, how do I do that?
- How does the Nebraska Relay System work when a deaf person calls a hearing person?
- I've heard about a Video Relay Service. What is it and how does it work?
- What is CART?
- What is a TTY?
Answer -- A cochlear implant is an electronic device (called an electrode array) that is surgically implanted into the cochlea in the inner ear. These electrodes stimulate the auditory nerve. The cochlear device contains four elements: the microphone, which picks up sound; signal processor which processing sound into impulses; transmission systems that transmit impulses to the electrode array which sends the impulses to the brain. The microphone and signal processor are worn on the outside of the head (usually behind the ear).
Answer -- There are several manufacturers of cochlear implants. Advanced
- Bionics, AllHear Inc.
- Clarion Cochlear, Cochlear Corp.
- Med El.
Clarion and Cochlear Corp are the most commonly used devices in the United States.
How do I know if I qualify for a cochlear implant?
Answer -- Usually the best candidate for a cochlear implant has a hearing loss greater than 90dB and has some sentence recognition although children are good candidates. To determine if you are a candidate for a cochlear implant, contact a Physician who specializes in Cochlear Implants.
Where can I receive financial assistance for a hearing aid?
Answer -- Medicaid will cover the cost of a new hearing aid. If you do not receive Medicaid, the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) can assist you through their Hearing Aid Bank Program. The Sertoma Hearing Aid Bank assist people that are 65 and over, and the Lions Hearing Aid Bank assists those under the age of 65. The hearing aids are used/reconditioned and an application process is required to determine eligibility.
Where can I get my TTY/Amplified phone repaired?
Answer -- If your TTY or specializes amplified telephone needs repair or warranty service work, check the manufacturer's guide in your manual. If you no longer have the manual, you may get the list of equipment repair services at www.ncdhh.ne.gov/pdf/repair_services.pdf.
If I cannot afford to buy my own TTY or phone amplifier where can I get financial assistance?
Answer -- The Nebraska Specialized Telecommunication Equipment Program (NSTEP) provides monetary assistance to persons who experience deafness, hearing loss, deaf-blind or speech disabled. There are no income guidelines and application can be made through the Commission. Contact Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) office for more details.
Where can I get a TTY or amplified phone while my equipment is being repaired?
Answer --Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) can provide you with a temporary loan while your phone equipment is being repaired. There is no cost(s) for the loan, however the consumer is responsible for the care of the equipment and returning it to the Commission when the loan period expires.
I have difficulties communicating with my doctor and need a sign language interpreter, what do I do?
Answer --After making an appointment with your doctor, tell the doctor’s office that you are deaf and would like to have a qualified sign language interpreter for your doctor’s appointment. If the doctor’s office does not know where to get an interpreter, refer them to the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) interpreter referral service by calling toll free at 1-800-545-6244.
What do I do if the Doctor’s office refuses to hire an interpreter?
Answer -- Contact the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) office in your area and speak with a Field Representative. They will contact the doctor’s office and provide them with information about the Americans with Disabilities Act and your rights to have accessible and effective communication.
I am going to have surgery, what do I need to do to ensure effective communication at the hospital?
Answer -- Contact the Care Management Department at the Hospital to request accessible services you will need during your stay. Accessible services could include services such as closed captioning on your TV, access to a phone and effective communication that best meets your needs. Any problems you might encounter at the hospital in regards to accessible services, please contact the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) office for assistance.
I was issued a ticket for a violation and must appear in court. What do I do to make sure that I have effective communication in the courtroom?
Answer -- Upon receiving your ticket notify the court immediately. Explain that you are deaf or hard of hearing and will need access to effective communication. This can be a sign language interpreter; CART or assistive listening devices. Most courts should have access to assistive listening devices; however, if the court does not know how or where to coordinate CART services or obtain assistive devices refer them to NCDHH for more information and/or assistance.
Answer -- A Pocketalker is an assistive listening device that is used when one does not hear well in a noisy environment. The device is used for one-on-one communication. It is a powerful aid that can improve amplification for most people with a severe hearing loss. The Pocketalker can be used in a courtroom or in a large meeting group.
Suppose I would like to test a Pocketalker, where can I get one to loan?
Answer --The Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) office has Pocketalker to loan for a three-month trial period. The office can also give you information on where to purchase one.
Answer -- The Nebraska Relay Service (NRS) provides the vital link for effective telephone communication between people who use a TTY and those who use a standard telephone. A TTY (also called a TDD, TT, or text telephone) is a device that allows people who cannot hear and/or speak to type and read their telephone conversations. Calls are relayed by operators called Communication Assistants (CAs), who act as an “invisible link” between the two relay users. You can reach the Nebraska Relay Service by dialing 711. The Relay is used by hard of hearing people and speech impaired people.
What language do deaf adults and children use to communicate?
Answer -- Typically, deaf adults and children use American Sign Language (ASL). Families with members attending a residential school rely on ASL for communication. Those with mainstream (public school) education, or many acquiring deafness at a late age, may use Signing Exact English (S.E.E.), or lip reading. An individual’s family background may dictate language choice.
Answer -- ASL is American Sign Language. ASL is a distinct language with its own grammar and syntax. It is not based on, nor derived from a spoken language. It is a visual-gestural language that uses facial expression, spatial markers, fingerspelling and signs. It is the native language of the Deaf community.
Answer -- ASL originated in 1816. A French deaf educator, Laurent Clerc, brought the language to the United States. About 60 percent of the vocabulary used in ASL comes from French Sign Language.
Answer -- SEE is Signing Exact English. It developed in the public educational system as a means to educate deaf and hard of hearing children. It is a manual code for English, which includes initialized signs, and incorporates some ASL features for various words. SEE uses first-letter symbols and signs made to match words in the English language.
Answer -- Pidgin Signed English is a combination of two languages. Typically, Pidgin is formed when two people communicate without knowing the other’s native language. Pidgin Signed English (PSE) may be formed when a person native of ASL communicates with someone native of English. The two languages are mixed together during the conversation and form Pidgin.
Answer -- Gestuno is an international sign language system created by using various signs from different countries. It incorporates the use of mime and gestures.
What is the Nebraska Specialized Telecommunications Program?
Answer -- The Nebraska Specialized Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Program (NSTEP) is a state assistance program aiding anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, deaf/blind, or has speech impairment. It offers individuals specialized telephone and notification devices — signaling when a phone rings — at no cost.
To qualify, individuals must meet five (5) qualifying criteria. There are no income guidelines. Qualifiers will receive a voucher from the Public Service Commission (PSC) via U.S. Mail entitling them to free equipment.
Find the application and additional NSTEP information on this website.
I am a hearing person and need to talk with someone who is deaf by telephone, how do I do that?
Answer -- Hearing people can call anyone who is deaf or hard of hearing by using the Nebraska Relay System. The country wide number is 711. An operator will answer the phone and ask if you have used the relay before. Answer “no” for an explanation of how to proceed with your conversation.
How does the Nebraska Relay System work when a deaf person calls a hearing person?
Answer -- When a hearing person answers the phone, an operator will say, “This is CA, No. ABC. Someone is calling you through the Nebraska Relay System. Have you received a relay call before?” Answer “no” to have the operator explain the process. Then, begin conversing through an operator. Operators have a TTY to assist in dictating to you what the deaf person types. Your reply will be typed by the operator to the deaf person.
I've heard about a Video Relay Service. What is it and how does it work?
Answer -- Video Relay is a tool allowing deaf individuals to converse via web cam, or another piece of video technology. Sign interpreters replace operators who rely on TTY, such as the communication assistant in the Nebraska Relay System. Instead of typing to an operator, parties can sign. The interpreter will voice everything as the deaf person signs. As a speaker replies, the interpreter signs to the deaf person. This eliminates the need for you to say, “Go ahead,” or, “GA,” after each sentence.
Answer -- CART stands for Computer Aided Real Time. This is a service providing real time transcription to people attending seminars, performances, workshops or events that have a speaker. This service allows for a person with a hearing loss to read what is being said at the time it is spoken.
Answer -- TTY is an abbreviation for “Teletypewriter.” It has also been called a TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf), and TT (Text Telephone). This device is manufactured to help people with a hearing loss to freely use the telephone.
The device has an acoustic coupler (where the phone is set), keyboard, and a small digital screen. Use the keyboard to type messages as if you are voicing directly to the person. Newer models rarely require putting the phone handset on the acoustic coupler. Many models have a direct connect feature allowing the deaf to dial directly with their TTY. Deaf and hard of hearing people may use this device to call their friends and family, if they have a TTY, as well. TTY's do not work with a direct connection to a digial phone line.
If you must make a phone call to someone without access to a TTY (i.e. doctor’s office, restaurant, etc.), call using the Nebraska Relay System.
My doctor has diagnosed me with a hearing loss. What services are available for hard of hearing people?
Answer -- The Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (NCDHH) is an information and referral agency, geared to helping you maintain a healthy quality of life. Advocacy, equipment loan, hearing aid banks and mental health referral services are provided.
For example, NCDHH helps you acquire an amplified telephone and/or phone ringing notification device, important for communication. NCDHH provides hearing aid applications, plus advocacy services. All of the NCDHH offices display assistive listening devices to help you test the equipment used in the marketplace. These items are available for loan, for a period of up to three months.
I am a deaf/hearing client and would like to comment about a specific interpreter is there a form. Can I do that?
Answer -- Yes. You may access interpreter evaluation forms on the NCDHH website, complete and submit them at anytime. You may also request a form via telephone or in person.
I live in rural Nebraska. Whom do I contact for deaf or hard of hearing assistance in my area?
Answer -- See the NCDHH region services map on the homepage for specific county and locale details. There are offices in North Platte and Scottsbluff to serve residents of Western Nebraska.
An interpreter didn't show up at my appointment. I confirmed the appointment well in advance. What are my options?
Answer -- Have the agency call the interpreter referral service in Omaha and let them know the interpreter did not show. You may file a formal complaint or grievance by going to your local Commission office. NCDHH will investigate the situation and let you know the results. However, if the Interpreter was not referred by the Commission, or is not on our list, NCDHH may not handle the issue.
Can NCDHH keep a record, as a deaf person, of my preferred interpreters?
Answer -- Yes. Each time you add an interpreter to your list, his or her name will remain as a preferred interpreter until you request otherwise. You may call the NCDHH interpreter referral department in Lincoln, 800-545-6244, to establish your list of preferred interpreters.
I will be attending a workshop and prefer to utilize CART. What should I do?
Answer -- NCDHH at this time does not have CART providers as a part of their referral service. The Commission has a list of CART providers that can be distributed to persons requesting this service.
Does Nebraska require Interpreters to be licensed? If so, how does one obtain a license?
Answer -- Yes. Nebraska has laws, LB 87-2006, Neb. Statutes 20-150 to 20-159, mandating state- or government-funded agencies to employ licensed sign language interpreters. Interpreters holding a QAST III or national certification may obtain a license through NCDHH. The rules and regulations pertaining to sign language interpreter licensure can be found at online at http://www.ncdhh.ne.gov/pdf/interpreter_rules_regs.pdf.
Does the Commission ever ask Agency/Businesses to complete Evaluation Forms?
Answer -- Yes. Periodically, evaluation forms are mailed to random agencies and businesses to evaluate the interpreting services they receive. Evaluation forms are also kept on the NCDHH website for your free access and submittals at anytime.
We would like to have a sign language class taught to employees of our small business/agency. Who do I contact?
Answer -- Contact a local Field Representative in your area. He or she may have information on who provides this type of service.
We would like to have someone come teach a basic sign language course to our State of Nebraska agency (or commission), for communication purposes. Can NCDHH help?
Answer -- Yes, NCDHH offers sign language classes with a minimum of 10 students to state agencies and commissions.
I work at a hotel. How do we accommodate our deaf and hard of hearing guests?
Answer -- Hotels are considered a public entity and owners must make rooms are accessible to deaf and hard of hearing individuals, as they would be by someone without a hearing loss.
I have a hearing loss and use assistive listening devices. Does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) still apply to me?
Answer -- Yes, the ADA is not just for those who use interpreters. You have the right to tell your doctor or health care provider that you need an assistive listening device to hear and understand what is being said.
I have a dog that I want trained as a hearing dog. Where can I go?
Answer -- Most facilities that train hearing dogs or service animals get their own dogs. They have specific criteria that they look for in determining if a dog is trainable or not. NCDHH has a list of facilities that professionally train hearing dogs.
I just bought two hearing aids, and I want help paying for them. Do you have a program that will provide financial assistance?
Answer -- No. NCDHH coordinates programs that provide used and refurbished hearing aids to those who qualify. For more information, click on the “Hearing Aid Banks” link on the NCDHH Web site or contact the field representative in your area.
I got a phone through the Nebraska Specialized Telecommunications Program (NSTEP), but it isn’t working anymore. Can you come fix it or get me a new one?
Answer -- The Nebraska Specialized Telecommunications Equipment Program (NSTEP) is a state program that provides one phone and one alerting device per household to those who qualify. People can reapply every 5 years. Once you receive a phone or alerting device, it belongs to you, and any repairs are your responsibility.
NCDHH coordinates a program that offers free phones? What is the catch?
Answer -- There is no catch. Everyone in Nebraska pays a surcharge on their telephone bill to the Public Service Commission. Part of the money collected pays for the relay operators and part of the money is used by the Public Service Commission to purchase specialized telecommunications equipment for Nebraskans who have a hearing loss, hearing and vision loss, or speech disability.
Answer -- A Captioned Telephone (CapTel) is a telephone that displays word-for-word captions. The CapTel user can listen to the conversation and also read what the person is saying. This phone could benefit someone with some degree of hearing loss who finds it difficult to understand telephone conversations or those who are deaf or hard of hearing and can voice for themselves. There are two versions of CapTel Phones, visit a NCDHH demo center to see the CapTel phone.
What is Video Remote Interpreting (VRI)?
Answer -- Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) uses video-conferencing equipment to provide sign language interpreting services. With VRI, deaf and hearing persons are in the same room and the interpreter is at a call center. The interpreter uses a headset to hear what the hearing person says and then signs to a camera for the deaf person. The deaf person and hearing person can talk to each other as if the interpreter was there in the room with them. This works well in rural locations or where local interpreters may not be available.
Does Medicare or insurance cover cochlear implants?
Answer -- Several factors support coverage and payment for cochlear implants under Medicare. Cochlear implants are covered under the statutory Medicare benefits provision for prosthetic devices. Medicare has a longstanding national coverage policy providing coverage for cochlear implants when the patient meets the coverage criteria. If you would like to check, you may call the Medicare Benefits line at 1-800-633-4227. Private insurance companies differ on coverage, so it is best to check with your insurance carrier to see if cochlear implants are covered.
If I am stopped by a police officer for speeding, is the officer required by law to provide a sign language interpreter?
Answer -- If it is just a traffic violation and you are issued a noncriminal citation, the police officer will communicate through written notes and point to information on the citation. In this case, a sign language interpreter is not needed.
If I am arrested for anything, do I needed a sign language interpreter?
Answer -- If you are arrested, you should request an interpreter. The police will find an interpreter, and you will be provided your rights at the time the interpreter arrives.
When would a police officer use an assistive listening device as a communication aid?
Answer -- At a headquarters or precinct building, if two or more officers are interrogating a witness who is hard of hearing, an assistive listening device may be needed. It is the responsibility of the person with a disability to determine when a communication tool is needed.
When a sign language interpreter is needed, how do police departments locate one?
Answer -- Your police department should have one or more interpreters available on call. This is generally accomplished though a sign language interpreter referral service like the one offered by the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Communicating through sign language will not be effective unless the interpreter is familiar with law enforcement terminology, so the department should ensure that the interpreters it uses are familiar with legal terms.