“This issue brief focuses on the language access responsibilities of federal fund recipients pursuant to the federal civil rights laws. Federal fund recipients include hospitals, nursing homes, managed care organizations, state Medicaid agencies, home health agencies, health service providers, and social service organizations. In recent years, the Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Health and Human Services (DHHS) have provided extensive information and assistance to federal fund recipients and the public regarding language access. As public interest and debate increase, federal policy in this area is being refined. However, the core aspects of the policy have remained consistent: – Meaningful language access will only be accomplished over time and through the use of flexible approaches. – Federal fund recipients should: (1) undertake assessment of the language needs of individuals in their service area; (2) consider developing a written plan for responding to those needs; (3) offer competent assistance services; (4) determine the need to translate written documents, particularly ?vital? documents; (5) provide notices to LEP communities and individuals informing them of language assistance services; and (6) monitor the effectiveness of language assistance provided. – Federal fund recipients should seek to recruit and retain staff that reflects community culture and language and to improve cultural awareness and competency through ongoing staff training.” – Publisher’s description CONTENTS Executive Summary I. Introduction II. The Need for Language Access III. Language Access Responsibilities under the Federal Civil Rights Laws IV. Policy and Program Developments in the States V. Conclusion VI. Appendix: Frequently Asked Questions
