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News & Knowledge

Risk Management Guide: Limited English Proficiency (LEP) – Interpreters and Translators

All patients are entitled to confidential, effective communication and fully informed consent. The DHHS Office of Civil Rights notes that inadequate interpretation for patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) is a form of prohibited discrimination based on national origin under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In addition to the Civil Rights Act, various state and local laws apply to LEP individuals, including state laws against discrimination. One or more of these laws will require you to provide a qualified interpreter or auxiliary aids to ensure effective communication at no cost to the patient. Compliance with these laws may affect your ability to continue receiving federal (Medicare, Medicaid) or state reimbursement. …

Curi’s risk mitigation resources and guidance are offered for educational and informational purposes only. This information is not medical or legal advice, does not replace independent professional judgment, does not constitute an endorsement of any kind, should not be deemed authoritative, and does not establish a standard of care in clinical settings or in courts of law. If you need legal advice, you should consult your independent/corporate counsel. We have found that using risk mitigation efforts can reduce malpractice risk; however, we do not make any guarantees that following these risk recommendations will prevent a complaint, claim, or suit from occurring, or mitigate the outcome(s) associated with any of them.

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