Why timing matters for Section 1557–related updates Early in the year, many healthcare organizations review compliance-related documents tied to patient communication and access requirements. These reviews often connect to Section 1557 obligations and other federal or state guidance that affect how information is shared with patients and members. Addressing these updates early gives teams more … Continued
January brings a noticeable shift in patient volume for most clinics and hospitals. Respiratory illnesses rise at the same time families return to school, work, and childcare routines. This creates more questions, more follow-up calls, and more need for clear instructions. When patients and families speak different languages, the winter surge becomes even harder to … Continued
Over the phone interpretation, OPI, phone interpretation whatever name you prefer, the ability to pick up the phone and connect to a professional interpreter has become a staple for healthcare professionals treating limited-English proficient (LEP) patients. Shifting US demographics and legislation like Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act make interpreters essential for practicing medicine, and phone … Continued
The material herein is educational and informational only. No legal advice is provided You’ve considered the patients themselves when it comes to translating discharge instructions, but have you considered their caretakers? Recently a patient sued a Texas hospital system, alleging that the hospital violated the Affordable Care Act’s prohibition on national origin discrimination when it … Continued
It’s been three years since Health and Human Services’ final order on Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act took effect. US healthcare providers have worked hard to meet the language access requirements that Section 1557 lays out. Has your organization achieved compliance with the interpretation and translation requirements found in Section 1557 of the Affordable Care … Continued
You want to provide translations for your patients to lower readmission rates, improve patient satisfaction, and keep within the letter of the law. But how do you determine when and how to translate your organization s documents? Fortunately, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has provided a guide to help you to determine when documents need … Continued
In 2020, telehealth quickly became a solution for doctors to meet with patients while limiting COVID-19 exposure. While the COVID-19 vaccines have made many services more accessible, telehealth remains a significant feature for those seeking medical care. Let’s review the tools healthcare facilities need to ensure their technology supports the increased use of video conferencing. … Continued
You may be familiar with the Joint Commission, but there are other independent accreditation organizations garnering respect in the healthcare industry. Acquiring multiple certifications and accreditations can improve a healthcare facility’s reputation for patient safety and quality of care. Propio’s experts researched Det Norske Veritas Healthcare, Inc. (DNV Healthcare) accreditation to help you compare your existing … Continued
Like other healthcare organizations, federally funded dental practices must comply with Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to protect patients from discrimination. Dentists and their staff need to know how discrimination is defined, how 1557 applies to the practice, and how to implement processes that deliver quality care and communication to all patients. … Continued
Did you know April is National Minority Health Month? The theme selected for 2023 is “Better Health Through Better Understanding,” which focuses on providing culturally and linguistically competent healthcare services, information, and resources. In addition to sharing data about health disparities for limited-English proficient (LEP) patients, Propio wants to help you take meaningful steps toward … Continued
