Title
Authorize the Deputy Purchasing Agent for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) to execute Amendment No. 7 to the Agreement with CyraCom International Inc. (A-11512) for Language and Interpretation Services at NMC, extending the Agreement to June 30, 2016 with no dollar increase to the total Agreement amount of $186,000.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended the Board of Supervisors:
Authorize the Deputy Purchasing Agent for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) to execute Amendment No. 7 to the Agreement with CyraCom International Inc. (A-11512) for Language and Interpretation Services at NMC, extending the Agreement to June 30, 2016 with no dollar increase to the total Agreement amount of $186,000.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Approximately 52% of the patient population at NMC identify themselves as Limited English Proficient (LEP). The Joint Commission, the agency that accredits NMC, has standards which require effective communication for LEP patients through the use of competent qualified interpreters. The California and Federal laws that regulate equal access to all patients, including Title VI of the Civil Right Act of 1964, prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin and require that healthcare be delivered with effective communication for non-English speakers. Interpretation services help NMC reduce liability for medical errors due to a breakdown in communication and improves the quality of healthcare.
NMC utilizes a three-pronged approach to meet the language needs of patients: in-person interpreting by NMC Medical Interpreters, NMC dual-role bilingual staff, and independent contractors; video interpreting; and over-the-phone interpreting. CyraCom International Inc. provides on-demand, over-the-phone interpretation services to NMC's healthcare providers allowing communication with patients in a safe, secure and professional environment. The service is available 24/7 in 150 languages and serves as a safety net to NMC's ...
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