About HMO Services in Other Languages
What are HMO Services in Other Languages?
HMO Services in Other Languages are services available from your HMO if you or a family member use American Sign Language (ASL) or do not speak English. These services may assist you with obtaining medical services.
How did we obtain this information?
The information found here was voluntarily self-reported to the Office of the Patient Advocate (OPA) by some California HMOs in Spring 2004. Participating HMOs responded to a survey that was developed by the OPA with input from the OPA's Cultural and Linguistic Services Workgroup.
Ratings of HMO Effort
The rating information shows how the HMOs compare to each other in terms of which plans report that they offer more or less language assistance services. The chart is not intended to indicate the quality of the services provided.
Above average effort indicates that the HMO reports that it offers more language assistance services than other HMOs that rate average or below average.
Average effort indicates that the HMO reports that it offers more language assistance services than HMOs that rate below average but not as many as HMOs that rate above average.
Below average effort indicates that the HMO reports that it offers fewer language assistance services than other HMOs.
The ratings are based on plans’ responses to a survey requesting information on how members: communicate with their HMO and doctor, access information in non-English languages, and obtain information on services and cost. Additionally, the survey asked plans about their efforts to monitor services offered and to give priority to language services issues.
The ratings system uses a single score that combines what your HMO does for its members across types of coverage. Please see the Information by Language section or contact your Plan for more information about the language assistance services available to you.
Information by Language
The check mark information available by clicking on a specific language is information that tells you what language assistance services are available for members who use ASL or do not speak English.
HMOs must provide interpreter services and some translated written materials to their members who do not speak or understand English well or who use ASL. Services may be different depending on whether you have Commercial coverage through your employer or have health coverage with Medi-Cal, Healthy Families or Medicare.
Why is this information important?
Knowing about the services your HMO offers in non-English languages may assist you in communicating better with your doctor or health plan representative. Improved communication can result in getting the medical services you need to achieve better health.
Where to obtain more information
The information presented here is not a complete description of language assistance services available. If you are interested in learning more about an HMO's interpreter or translation services, contact the HMO directly. You can find the telephone number and website address for each HMO on the Contact an HMO page or by clicking on HMO names wherever they appear.
If you would like more information about these data or if you have a problem seeking language assistance, please contact the Office of the Patient Advocate at 1-866-466-8900.
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