HPSM offers no-cost phone, video and (in certain circumstances) in-person language assistance services (LAS) provided by professional interpreters who are fluent in more than 230 languages. Our LAS can only be used for HPSM members. We partner with our interpreter services vendors to monitor and ensure appropriate utilization.
Providers can also access California Relay Services (CRS), which provides specially trained operators to relay telephone conversations back and forth between people with hearing or speech impairments as well as anyone else they have difficulty communicating with by telephone.
LAS requirements for providers
All contracted HPSM providers (including dental providers) are required to provide linguistically appropriate services to members with limited English proficiency (LEP) or hearing impairment. At each point of contact, providers must inform these members (and/or their medical decision makers) about:
- Their right to access qualified interpreters in all non-English languages, including American Sign Language (ASL), at no cost.
- Their right to not have to provide their own interpreters.
- How to access language assistance services.
- How to file complaints about interpreter services.
Apply to get a no-cost iPad for video and audio interpreter services.
We are making a limited supply of iPads available at no cost to providers who have patients with LEP or sensory impairment. We are giving iPads out on a first-come, first-served basis to solo primary care providers, occupational/physical therapy providers and providers with patients who communicate by ASL.
These iPads are configured to only access on-demand video and audio interpreter services, as well as HPSM’s LAS manual. Note that you must have Wi-Fi to use the iPad. Learn more and apply online for an iPad.
- Learn more about LAS on our website or in the HPSM Provider Manual.
- If you have questions about in-person interpreter services email interpreters@hpsm.org.