Medical and non-medical activities aimed at promoting, maintaining, or restoring health, including preventive measures, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care for deaf/hh individuals and communities.
Health Services
(ASL) Interpreter Policy
Our organization is committed to providing equal access to health care for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals through comprehensive American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation services. This policy is designed to make sure it is an effective communication and full participation in health services and accessibility for all Idahoans individuals.
Provision of Qualified ASL Interpreters
ASL interpreters will be available for all health-related appointments, including consultations, emergency services, and follow-up care, at no cost to the patient.
Deaf patients will not be charged for ASL interpreter services. The cost of providing qualified interpreters will be covered by the organization, ensuring no financial burden is placed on patients for accessible communication. Learn more about Deaf tax benefits.
Only qualified interpreters trained in medical terminology and confidentiality standards will be provided, ensuring accurate and culturally appropriate communication.
Staff Training and Awareness
Staff will undergo regular training on effective communication with Deaf and Hard of Hearing patients, cultural sensitivity, and procedures for requesting ASL interpreters.
Training will also cover the importance of respecting patients’ language preferences and understanding accessibility requirements.
Learn more about: Service page.
Telehealth and Remote Access
Video remote interpreting (VRI) services will be available for telehealth consultations, enabling patients to access health services remotely with ASL support.
Technical support will be provided to ensure a smooth experience, with alternative options available if VRI services do not meet the patient’s needs.
Patient Rights and Informed Consent
Patients have the right to request ASL interpreters in virtually or in person any stage of their care and can decline services if they choose. This choice will not affect the quality or accessibility of their care.
Information regarding the right to ASL services will be made available in multiple formats, including visual displays and written materials, to ensure accessibility and informed consent.