Common use of Linguistic Competency Clause in Contracts

Linguistic Competency. 2.8.9.1. The STAR+PLUS MMP must demonstrate linguistic competency in its dealing, both written and verbal, with Enrollees and must understand that linguistic differences between the Provider and the Enrollee cannot be permitted to present barriers to access and quality health care and demonstrate the ability to provide quality health care across a variety of cultures. 2.8.9.2. The STAR+PLUS MMP must arrange and pay for Competent Interpreter services, including written, spoken, and sign language interpretation, for Enrollees or LARs, as applicable, to ensure effective communication regarding treatment, medical history, or health condition. The STAR+PLUS MMP must maintain policies and procedures outlining the manner in which Enrollees, or LARs, as applicable, and Enrollee’s Providers can access Competent Interpreter services including written, spoken, and sign language interpretation when the Enrollee is receiving services from a Provider in an office or other location, or accessing Emergency Services. 2.8.9.3. Over-the-phone interpretation (OPI), including three-way calls facilitated between the STAR+PLUS MMP, Provider and telephone interpreter, must not require advance notification by the Enrollee, LAR, or Provider. Upon a Provider, Enrollee, or LAR’s request, in-person interpreters for scheduled appointments shall be arranged as quickly as possible, with “rush” appointments available for Urgent Conditions. For routine care, in-person requests will be scheduled according to the requested date and time, or upon the next availability of the interpreter for the requested language, including American Sign Language (ASL). If an in-person interpreter is not available for the requested date and time, the STAR+PLUS MMP must notify and coordinate with the Provider and Enrollee, and offer alternative interpretation options, such as OPI, video remote interpretation, or the earliest availability of the in-person interpreter. Enrollees may select an in-person interpreter whether they require ASL, or another language. The STAR+PLUS MMP may recommend, but not require, an advance notice timeframe for arranging an in-person interpreter. The STAR+PLUS MMP must make a good faith effort to arrange an in-person interpreter when one is requested, regardless of an advance notice requirement.