MedicaidAdministrativeMedium impact
22-551 Meet Members' Language Needs with the Language Assistance Program
Health Net·CA·Provider News
We identified it
Jun 20, 2026
Summary
Health Net's Language Assistance Program (LAP) requires hospitals to provide interpreter services for members with limited English proficiency, hearing impairments, or diverse cultural backgrounds. Hospitals cannot ask members to bring their own interpreters or use minors/unqualified staff for interpretation, except in documented emergencies.
Action Required
Immediately: Hospital staff must contact Health Net at the number on member ID cards when interpreter services are needed for members with language barriers. Document any emergency use of family interpreters in medical records with justification. Consider enrolling staff in free cultural competency training at cccm.thinkculturalhealth.hhs.gov.