The bill mandates that costs associated with providing competent interpreter services, both in sign and spoken languages, be recognized and reimbursed separately by various health entities. Specifically, it amends Section 13F of chapter 118E of the General Laws to include a provision that requires facilities licensed under section 19 of chapter 19 or section 51 of chapter 111 to receive reimbursement for these interpreter services from the division and its contracted health insurers, health plans, health maintenance organizations, behavioral health management firms, and third-party contractors.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section to chapter 176O, which stipulates that carriers and behavioral health managers, along with their contractors, must also recognize and separately reimburse the same licensed facilities for the costs of providing competent interpreter services. This legislative change aims to ensure that individuals requiring interpreter services have access to necessary communication support in healthcare settings.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 118E-13F