Interpretation Services Support Access to Health Care November 22, 2017 In order to meet Federal and State regulations, providers are responsible for ensuring that their practice or clinic offers timely and free interpretation services to all members with Limited English Proficiency (LEP). Members that may be considered “LEP,” are individuals who do not speak English as their primary language, and have a limited ability to read, speak, write or understand English. Providers and provider clinics that receive federal funding, such as Medicare and Medicaid dollars, are required to provide these services in accordance with Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, and Oregon State law. Interpretation services are crucial in supporting access to health care for underserved populations, reducing communication barriers, developing positive patient-provider relationships, and improving efficiency of health care services.
