Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia
Advertisement

Insurers Work To Comply With Rules for Interpreter, Translations Services

by Medindia Content Team on November 27, 2007 at 11:57 AM
Insurers Work To Comply With Rules for Interpreter, Translations Services

California insurers are working to comply with new state rules that will require them to provide interpreters and translations of documents to beneficiaries with limited English language skills, the Los Angeles Times reports.

The rules are intended to ensure that residents with limited English language skills are able to access services through their insurance company. California already requires hospitals and public health plans to provide such services.

Advertisement

Beginning in 2009, the rules will require insurers to provide an interpreter for limited English proficiency members at medical appointments and when they seek customer service. Insurers by mid-2008 must submit plans detailing how they will comply with the new state rules. State officials said the compliance plan must include:

. A demographic profile of an insurer's membership; . What services will be available for LEP members; and . A plan for a system to train staff for answering phone calls in different languages.
Advertisement

The rules also will require insurers to provide LEP members with bills, medication forms and other important documents in their native language.

Insurers must provide translations of promotional material and other nonvital documents within 21 days of a member's request. Insurers that do not comply with the rules will face fines of $10,000 or more per violation, according to Lynne Randolph, a spokesperson for the California Department of Managed Health Care. DMHC is charged with enforcing the rules for HMOs.

Source: Kaiser Family Foundation
LIN/P
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Health Insurance News

Medicare's Telehealth Cut Raises Patient Access Concerns
The Medicare Benefits Schedule Review Advisory Committee (MRAC) is seeking input on the recommendations as part of its broader review of Medicare-funded telehealth services.
How Crucial is Medicaid for Adults Living With Down Syndrome?
As a growing number of individuals with Down syndrome reach advanced ages, the Medicaid system should be prepared to deliver customized healthcare.
Health Insurance Gap: 25% of Low-Income Older Americans Uninsured
Discontinuities in health insurance coverage among older Americans, who experience a higher prevalence of health concerns compared to the broader population.
1 in 5 Medicare Recipients Travel Over 50 Miles for Neurologist Visits
The distance one must travel can pose a significant obstacle to healthcare access for people dealing with chronic neurological conditions.
The Visible Toll: Affordability Crisis in Health
Inability to afford better healthcare is apparent in the appearance of the malnourished poor, just as the obese reveal the "cost" of their health.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
×

Insurers Work To Comply With Rules for Interpreter, Translations Services Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests