September 22, 2025 — VONA, a leading provider of medical case management services, is proud to announce the launch of a pilot program utilizing Apple’s new Live Translation feature available with iOS 26, running on compatible iPhones® paired with AirPods Pro® 3. This initiative is designed to support Limited English Proficient (LEP) injured workers, enhancing communication between injured workers and case managers and improving recovery outcomes across the workers’ compensation system.
VONA’s early adoption and innovative use of this consumer technology marks a significant step forward in addressing systemic challenges in healthcare and workplace injury recovery. Case managers will be using the real-time translation capabilities in the field, enabling seamless, hands-free communication with injured workers who speak languages other than English.
“Communication is the foundation of trust, and the use of this technology helps us build that trust with injured workers every day. This is a transformational moment for our industry,” said Linda Colsen, Chief Commercial Officer of VONA. “The simplicity and power of real-time translation through technology allows our case managers to connect with injured workers in a way that was previously impossible. It’s not about convenience. It’s about dignity, understanding, and accelerating recovery. Everything we do, we believe in being the trusted partner in improving outcomes for those we serve. We believe it matters who you use.”
Addressing a Growing Need
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 68 million people in the United States speak a language other than English at home, and over 29 million are considered Limited English Proficient. In the workforce, approximately 1 in 10 working-age adults (19.2 million people) are LEP, representing a significant portion of employees who may face communication barriers during medical recovery.
Language barriers in healthcare have been shown to result in:
- Delayed diagnoses and treatment
- Higher rates of medical errors
- Longer hospital stays and increased readmissions
- Reduced adherence to treatment plans
- Lower patient satisfaction and trust in providers
These challenges are especially critical in workers’ compensation, where timely and accurate communication is essential for guiding injured workers through complex medical and claims processes.
How It Works
Apple’s Live Translation feature utilizes the AirPods Pro® 3’s microphones to detect spoken language and sends the audio to a compatible iPhone® running the required software. A simple gesture activates translation mode for case managers, allowing the AirPods® to capture speech, send it to the iPhone® for processing using Apple IntelligenceTM, delivering translated audio instantly. The iPhone® also displays live transcriptions for the injured worker.
Supported languages include English, Spanish, French, German, and Brazilian Portuguese, with more coming soon.
VONA will pilot this feature with select clients in early Q4 2025, integrating it into intake, support, and case management field operations. A larger rollout is planned for Q1 2026.
Trailblazing a New Standard in Case Management
VONA’s integration of live translation technology reaffirms its commitment to accessible, human-centered care. By eliminating language barriers, case managers can respond with greater urgency and clarity—empowering injured workers to fully engage in their recovery.
“This innovation enhances everyday interactions across all stakeholders, but is not intended to replace medical-grade interpreters,” said Colsen. “Our early evaluation ensures we’re ready to deploy this solution in a manner that benefits our clients and injured workers.”
About VONA
VONA is a national leader dedicated to medical case management. For more than a decade, VONA has delivered urgent, clear, and compassionate services—spanning field, catastrophic, vocational, and telephonic case management—that simplify the process for clients and improve outcomes for injured workers. Built on trust and proven by time, VONA’s case managers ensure communication, alignment, and results at every step. Learn more at vonacm.com and follow VONA on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for the latest updates.
Media Contact: Kimberly German Kimberly.German@vonacm.com
Legal / Brand Disclaimer
Apple, iPhone, and AirPods are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Apple is not a participant in, and has not authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved, this program.