This bill aims to enhance communication assistance for deaf and hard of hearing patients in healthcare facilities in West Virginia by adding a new section, 16B-3-22, to the Code of West Virginia. It mandates that hospitals, ambulatory health care facilities, and extended care facilities ensure effective communication with these patients, in alignment with the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA). The bill outlines specific requirements for facilities, including the provision of American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters, assistive listening devices, accessible medical forms, and visual alarm systems.

Additionally, if an ASL interpreter is unavailable, facilities must provide alternative communication technologies such as hearing loops and video relay services. The bill also stipulates that any ASL interpreter employed by these facilities must be approved by the West Virginia Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, and noncompliance with these requirements will be reportable to licensing authorities. The provisions of this bill are set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16B-3-22