OAR 950-050-0000: Purpose

(1) These rules establish the Health Care Interpreter (HCI) program, a central registry, and a process for certification and qualification of health care interpreters for persons with limited English proficiency, those who prefer to communicate in a language other than English, and Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals whose primary communication is through American Sign Language or other signed languages. The rules set standards for health care providers and coordinated care organizations working with health care interpreters and interpreting service companies in Oregon. (2) These rules help the Oregon Health Authority comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which mandates that no person in the United States shall, on grounds of race, color or national origin, be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. (3) Nothing in these rules is meant to prevent an Emergency Medical Services provider from providing prehospital care as that term is defined in ORS 682.025 to an individual who has limited English proficiency, who communicates in signed language, or who prefers to communicate in a language other than English. (4) Nothing in these rules is meant to delay care in an emergency to an individual who has limited English proficiency, who communicates in signed language, or who prefers to communicate in a language other than English.