A free app helps visually impaired patients navigate and meet their healthcare needs.
Navigating health care can be taxing for many people, but it can be especially challenging for those who are blind or visually impaired.
That’s why RWJBarnabas Health (RWJBH) offers Aira, an innovative mobile app that provides on-demand remote visual interpretation services for people who have lost their sight or experience low vision. The health system expanded the service in 2024, after piloting it years before at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset as part of an ongoing commitment to accessibility, inclusion and equitable care.
“Aira connects users to trained visual interpreters, or agents, who provide real-time guidance to help them navigate various tasks,” says Suzette Robinson, Senior Vice President and Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer at RWJBH. “The service is available free to all patients, visitors, employees, volunteers, providers and vendors within our acute-care facilities and medical group offices.”
Accessibility challenges too often keep people from seeking health care. Aira eliminates barriers and increases accessibility by helping blind and low-vision people seamlessly complete a variety of necessary tasks. “It empowers users to navigate health care spaces with independence and dignity,” says Robinson.
‘Like Calling a Friend’
Anthony Rodriguez, a 33-year-old New Brunswick resident, knows this firsthand. Blind since age 17, Anthony uses Aira regularly and finds it indispensable.
“It has been completely lifechanging,” he says. “It does everything my eyes are supposed to do but can’t. The agents are real people, not bots, so I can interact better with them.”
He especially appreciates that agents don’t just give generic instructions but are able to answer questions and offer explanations. “If I have a doctor’s appointment, the agent will not only tell me how to get there, but will guide me to be sure I’m walking in the right direction and taking the safest, fastest route through the facility,” he says.
Aira is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at RWJBH hospitals and medical group offices, and provides immediate access to an agent.
“Users simply download the app from the iOS App Store or Google Play, launch it on their smartphone and connect with an Aira agent for immediate assistance,” says Robinson.
“It’s like picking up the phone and calling a friend who is always there to help you,” says Anthony. He even uses Aira to help him access his MyChart patient portal. “I can share my computer screen with the agent and they help click on the information I need, read test results or messages, or help me fill out forms and submit them,” he says.
Anthony affirms that Aira helps him feel independent. “When you use the app, you don’t feel like you’re being a burden to anyone,” he says. “It’s simple to use, and I would encourage anyone with impaired vision to try it. I’m telling you, it will change your life.”
Learn more about Aira services at RWJBarnabas Health.
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Northwest, serving the communities of Clara Maass Medical Center in Belleville, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in Newark, Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Rahway, and Trinitas Regional Medical Center in Elizabeth
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