The proposed bill aims to enhance communication assistance for deaf and hard of hearing patients in healthcare facilities across West Virginia. It introduces a new section, 16B-3-22, which 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 documents, and visual alarm systems.

Additionally, if an ASL interpreter is unavailable, facilities must offer alternative communication technologies such as hearing loops and video relay services. The bill also stipulates that any ASL interpreter employed 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