An Act requiring reimbursement for the costs of providing competent interpreter services
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Progress
Where this bill stands in the legislative process.
- Introduced
- Passed House
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Overview
This bill would require Massachusetts hospitals to reimburse the costs associated with providing competent interpreter services to patients who rely on them. Currently, there may be gaps in funding for these essential services, which can hinder effective communication and care for patients with limited English proficiency. The bill aims to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all residents, regardless of their language skills. It seeks to standardize and financially support the provision of interpretation services within hospitals.
Key provisions
- Requires hospitals to reimburse the costs of interpreter services.
- Specifies that interpreter services must be ‘competent’.
- Applies to patients with limited English proficiency.
- Addresses communication barriers in healthcare settings.
- Focuses on ensuring equitable access to healthcare services.
Who is affected
- Hospitals
- Patients with limited English proficiency
- Healthcare providers
- Interpreter service providers
Notable changes
- Establishes a reimbursement mechanism for interpreter services.
- Addresses a potential gap in funding for language access services.
Bill text
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Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
2 on record
Primary sponsor
Cosponsor
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