MedicaidCoverageMedium impact
Interpreter Services Billing Guide Updated With Sign Language Interpreter Services Information
Washington Apple Health·WA·Billing Guide
Effective date
Aug 15, 2026
We identified it
Aug 18, 2026
Summary
The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) has updated the Interpreter Services Billing Guide effective August 15, 2026, to include comprehensive information on sign language interpretation services. All sections—Definitions, Client Eligibility, Coverage, and Billing—have been revised. Interpreter services providers must review and implement the updated guidance immediately to ensure compliant billing for Apple Health (Medicaid) claims.
Action Required
By August 22, 2026: Billing team must obtain and review the full Interpreter Services Billing Guide dated August 15, 2026 from the HCA website (https://www.hca.wa.gov/). Update internal billing procedures, encounter documentation, and billing software rules to reflect all revisions to Definitions, Client Eligibility, Coverage, and Billing sections, with particular attention to new sign language interpreter services requirements. Immediately audit recent interpreter services claims (past 30 days) to identify any compliance gaps and prepare corrective submissions if needed. Route the updated guide to all clinical and administrative staff who process or bill for interpreter services. Failure to comply with updated coverage and billing requirements may result in claim denials for Apple Health beneficiaries.