Title
Authorize the Chief Executive Officer for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) or his designee to execute an agreement with Health Care Interpreter Network (HCIN) for shared interpreter services at NMC for an amount not to exceed $265,000 with an agreement term July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended the Board of Supervisors:
Authorize the Chief Executive Officer for Natividad Medical Center (NMC) or his designee to execute an agreement with Health Care Interpreter Network (HCIN) for shared interpreter services at NMC for an amount not to exceed $265,000 with an agreement term July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Federal and state laws including, but not limited to Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Title VI require healthcare organizations to provide patients with access to qualified interpreters. Approximately 42% of the patient population at NMC identify themselves as limited English proficient (LEP). Health Care Interpreter Network's (HCIN) automated video/voice call center system provides NMC with 24/7 access to Qualified healthcare interpreters in 170 languages, including American Sign Language (ASL) using video conferencing devices and various forms of telephone interpreter services.
NMC has been using HCIN's network to stay compliant with the ever-changing rules and regulations as well as maintaining Joint Commission accreditation. The provision of interpretation services also helps NMC to improve the quality of healthcare and reduce liability for medical errors due to a breakdown in communication.
Since providers deemed it necessary to use video/telephone to limit exposure and communicate with COVID patients, we have experienced a 183% increase in service requests. Specifically, in June 2020 began the significant increase in usage and we anticipate the high usage to continue.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Office of County Counsel has reviewed and approved this agreement as...
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