The sign language video call functionality of 061 Salut Respon, active since March 2021, had handled a total of 25,000 consultations by September 2026. This demand has grown progressively, reaching nearly 7,000 video calls in 2025, a 14% increase compared to the previous year.
The majority of consultations (58%) have been administrative, related to procedures or information about the health system, while 4% have been of a healthcare nature. By profile, women represent 58% of users and men 42%. The predominant age group for these consultations is between 40 and 49 years old.
By healthcare regions, consultations primarily come from Barcelona Metropolitan North (35%), followed by Barcelona city (24%) and Barcelona Metropolitan South (12%).
The International Day of Sign Language, celebrated on September 23rd, highlights the importance of these communication methods for the deaf community. The increase in app usage reflects the trust placed in the service and its capacity to manage urgent and administrative queries, acting as a key information transmitter.
“"The progressive increase in the use of the 061 Salut Respon app by deaf people is very good news and is proof that it is a service that works and guarantees care for these individuals."
In Catalonia, nearly 35,000 people with hearing disabilities can benefit from this service, which covers everything from administrative procedures and health queries to managing emergencies that may require activating SEM professionals such as home doctors, ambulances, or medicalized helicopters.
For health-related issues, the interpreter connects with a 061 Salut Respon technician, nurse, or doctor to relay the request, acting as an intermediary between the healthcare professional and the patient. The video call can be activated from the app's settings by selecting the 'sign language' option, with the choice between Catalan or Spanish.
The 061 Salut Respon App also enables immediate user geolocalization, crucial in emergencies for rapid response. Furthermore, it facilitates access to the Shared Clinical History of Catalonia by registering personal data and the Individual Health Card (CIP Code), offering more comprehensive care. It also includes an anonymous chat, a map of nearby health centers and defibrillators, health tips, and first aid information.
