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Language Access, Effective Communication, Accessibility, and Nondiscrimination

Requires the Agency to be able to communicate with every patient it accepts, directly, through a qualified interpreter, or through translation technology (Rule 59A-8.020(1), F.A.C.); to give information in plain language and accessible formats with free interpreters, translations, and auxiliary aids (42 CFR §484.50(f) for a Medicare-certified agency); to follow the Section 1557 language access, effective communication, reasonable modification, notice, and grievance requirements in 45 CFR Part 92 where it is a covered entity; and never to discriminate or retaliate.

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About this policy
Policy number
FL-HH-PR-04
Version
1.0
Main rule
Rule 59A-8.020(1), F.A.C.
Library
Florida home health · 57 policies
Category
Client rights
Sections
20

In short

  • We only accept a patient if we can communicate with the patient, through bilingual staff, an interpreter, or translation technology.
  • Interpreters and aids for people with disabilities are free. Patients never have to bring or pay for their own.
  • Never use a child to interpret. Use family or friends only in an emergency or when the patient asks and it is appropriate.
  • Write down the patient's language and every time an interpreter was used.
  • We serve everyone without discrimination. Report any discrimination to the Administrator the same day.

What's inside

20 sections. The full text comes with the One-time Policy Pack.

Full text with a package
  • Terms of Reference
  • 1. Purpose
  • 2. Scope
  • 3. Definitions
  • 4. Policy Statement (Rule 59A-8.020(1), F.A.C.)
  • 5. Is the Agency a Covered Entity Under Section 1557?
  • 6. Identifying Needs Before the First Visit
  • 7. Interpreters
  • 8. Written Translations and Alternate Formats
  • 9. Patients With Disabilities
  • 10. Nondiscrimination and No Reprisal
  • 11. Section 1557 Coordinator, Written Procedures, and Grievances
  • 12. Notices
  • 13. Responsibilities
  • 14. Records and Compliance Monitoring
  • 15. Staff Training
  • 16. References
  • 17. Related Policies and Forms
  • 18. Approval
  • 19. Revision History

An inspector may ask

  • How do you find out a patient's preferred language and any communication disability before the first visit?
  • This patient speaks Haitian Creole. How did your nurse communicate with the patient? Who interpreted, and who paid?

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