What is a Language Access Plan, and why do you need it
Millions of individuals in the United States primarily communicate in languages other than English, and are often identified as Limited English Proficient (LEP). LEP individuals make up nearly 10% of the U.S. population. In addition to LEPs, there is a significant population of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals in the U.S. who require communication assistance through American Sign Language (ASL).
A Language Access Plan (LAP) outlines the methods and services an organization implements to provide equal access to individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). It ensures that non-English speakers or those with limited English proficiency can effectively communicate and access services in settings like healthcare, legal services, government agencies, and education.
You need a Language Access Plan to comply with legal standards, such as Title VI of the Civil Rights Act in the U.S., which mandates that organizations receiving federal funding provide language assistance. Beyond compliance, it enhances the quality of service, fosters inclusivity, and reduces misunderstandings that can lead to negative outcomes.
Language Access Program
Comprehensive Language Access Program
A language access program offers services and initiatives designed to assist individuals with limited English proficiency or those who do not speak English. These programs aim to eliminate communication barriers and ensure equitable access to essential services for all individuals, regardless of language.
Federal and State Language Access Regulations
Civil Rights Act, Title VI
Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Under this law, language discrimination is considered a form of national origin discrimination. This means that individuals with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) cannot be denied meaningful access to federally funded services or programs because they don't speak English well.
Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
Under Section 1557, healthcare providers and insurance companies receiving federal funds must take reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to LEP individuals. This often involves providing language assistance services, such as interpreters or translated materials, to ensure that language barriers do not prevent LEP individuals from accessing essential healthcare services.
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA)
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
This law prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in public life, including employment, services, and communications. While it doesn't specifically address language access for individuals with Limited English Proficiency, it mandates communication access for people with disabilities, such as those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing, by requiring services like ASL interpreters.
Language Access Plan Worksheet
Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act
Language Access Awareness Initiative
Alexandr Leshchinskiy, founder and CEO of Effectiff, launched this initiative to raise awareness about the critical importance of language access, particularly for healthcare and government organizations. The goal is to promote equity for Limited English Proficiency (LEP) individuals, as well as Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities. This initiative is supported by key industry leaders, including Katherine Adames, who leads interpretation services at A Foreign Language Service LLC; Elizabeth Hartman, a language access expert and ASL interpreter; and Stefan Korotaev, CTO at Cloud Interpreter. Dozens of linguists and experts are also part of this movement, advocating for equitable communication for all.
LANGUAGE ACCESS PROGRAM TEMPLATE
Language access typically includes several key components:
Interpretation Services
These services can be provided on-site, over the phone, or via video remote interpreting (VRI). They are essential for real-time communication between individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP) and professionals such as healthcare providers, educators, or legal officials. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation is also crucial and often legally mandated in various situations.
Translation Services
Written materials, including documents, websites, and forms, must be translated to ensure that individuals who do not read, speak, or write English can access important information and services.
Localization Services
This involves the cultural adaptation of websites, user interfaces, and software. Localization goes beyond mere translation; it incorporates cultural nuances to make content more relevant and accessible to specific audiences.
Video
Providing Language Access to Patients With Unique Communication Needs
Roundtable about Interpretation for Healthcare
Language Access in Post-Pandemic Healthcare And the Role of Technology
First roundtable
Language Access Plan for Healthcare
Language barriers create challenges in delivering high-quality healthcare, ensuring patient safety, and achieving satisfaction among both medical professionals and patients. To address these issues, many healthcare institutions now offer interpreter services to enhance access, improve communication, and boost patient satisfaction. While these services may impact the cost and length of treatment, modern solutions like over-the-phone interpretation and video remote interpretation significantly mitigate these barriers, often providing an immediate return on investment.
Declaration on the Rights of Deaf Children
Language access and multicultural communication are basic human rights. They ensure that everyone has access to justice, quality healthcare, and education, promoting equity in our society.
Alexandr Leshchinskiy
Language Access Program by Effectiff
Contact us if you need assistance with designing and implementing a language access plan
1212 Broadway Plaza, Ste 2100, Walnut Creek CA 94596
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