Inclusive Language Services for Open Enrollment

Open enrollment is just around the corner, starting on November 1. During this period, clear communication and a solid understanding of healthcare coverage and policies are extremely important. For individuals who speak different languages or face challenges due to disabilities such as visual and hearing impairments, navigating this information can be daunting. Akorbi steps in to provide a range of language services, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their language or ability, fully comprehends their healthcare options during open enrollment.

Akorbi’s Translation and Localization Services

To comply with CMS requirements, it's required to provide healthcare information in languages that represent 5% of the population on a regular basis. For other languages, information must be available as needed. Akorbi offers translation and localization services designed to meet these needs effectively.

We have experience in translating documents such as:

 

Summary of Benefits

An overview of the benefits and coverage provided by a healthcare plan, highlighting key features and costs.

Annual Notice of Change

A yearly document outlining changes to a healthcare plan's benefits, costs, and coverage for the upcoming year.

Evidence of Coverage

A detailed guide explaining the benefits, services, and costs associated with a healthcare plan.

Provider and Pharmacy Directories

Lists of healthcare providers and pharmacies that are covered under a specific healthcare plan.

Formulary/ List of Covered Drugs

A comprehensive list of prescription medications covered by a healthcare plan, including any restrictions.

Enrollment Forms

Documents required to sign up for a healthcare plan, capturing personal and health information.

Marketing Materials

Promotional content used to inform and attract potential members to a healthcare plan.

Member Handbooks

Informative booklets providing members with detailed information about their healthcare plan benefits and how to use them.

Akorbi’s Services for Visually Impaired Individuals

To make sure individuals with visual impairments have access to high-quality information, Akorbi offers specialized services to provide essential documents in formats that are easily read by those with visual challenges.

Our services include:

  • Braille Translations: We convert healthcare documents into Braille for accessible reading by visually impaired individuals.

  • Large Format Printing: We print healthcare documents in large formats for easier reading by those with visual challenges.
  • Audio Services: We convert written healthcare documents into audio formats for those who prefer listening over reading.

Services for Hearing Impaired Individuals

Akorbi supports individuals with hearing impairments by providing essential information in accessible formats. Our expertise and advanced tools allow us to create materials that accommodate various hearing challenges, ensuring clear communication during open enrollment. We can help through:

  • Sign Language Interpretation: Professional interpreters deliver essential healthcare information in sign language.
  • Captioning Services: Accurate captioning for videos and webinars ensures spoken information is accessible in written form.
  • Text Transcriptions: Converting audio content into written text, our transcriptions make spoken information easily accessible.

Section 508 Compliance

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities. This law aims to ensure that individuals with disabilities can access and use the same information and resources as everyone else. It covers a wide range of digital content, including websites, documents, and multimedia, and mandates that these be compatible with assistive technologies such as screen readers and magnifiers. 

Akorbi can help with 508 compliance through:

 

Logical Tagging

Tagging content for effective navigation by screen readers, including marking headings and organizing content order.

Semantic Structure

Accurately tagging document structures like headings, lists, and tables. Forms are designed to be fillable with assistive technologies.

Graphics Accessibility

Providing text descriptions for important graphical elements.

Technology Compatibility

Adjusting security settings to ensure assistive technologies can access the content.

Font and Text Clarity

Embedding fonts and linking all text to Unicode for clear, consistent display across platforms and devices.

Interactive Elements

Ensuring interactive elements, such as links and buttons, are accessible and functional with assistive technologies.

Section 1557

Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act mandates equal access to health programs regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.

Key Interpretation Requirements:

  • No Minor Children as Interpreters: Except in emergencies, using minor children as interpreters is prohibited.
  • Restrictions on Adult Friends and Family: Adult friends and family members can only serve as interpreters if they meet specific criteria.
  • Interpreter Criteria:
    • Ethics and Confidentiality: Interpreters must adhere to accepted ethics and maintain client confidentiality.
    • Language Proficiency: Interpreters must demonstrate proficiency in both English and the target language.
    • Effective Interpretation: Interpreters must be able to interpret accurately, impartially, and effectively, using appropriate vocabulary and phrases.

Akorbi’s Interpretation Services

Akorbi offers a comprehensive range of interpretation services to meet the requirements of Section 1557 and ensure effective communication in healthcare settings. We offfer:

  • On-Site Interpretation: Professional interpreters are available for in-person appointments, providing clear and accurate communication in a variety of settings.
  • Telephonic Interpretation: Access interpreters via phone for immediate language support, enhancing accessibility and convenience.
  • Scheduled Video Appointments: Including ASL interpretation, our video services are staffed by interpreters who have undergone compliance training and monthly OIG/SAM background screenings.

On-Demand Language Access Portal

Akorbi’s On-Demand Language Access Portal offers direct access to a network of linguists fluent in over 170 languages, ensuring quick and reliable language support:

  • Rapid Connection Times: Connect with a Spanish interpreter in under 15 seconds and interpreters for other languages in under 30 seconds.
  • Scheduling In-Person Appointments: Use the portal to arrange face-to-face meetings with interpreters, providing flexibility and accessibility.

Why Partner with Akorbi?

Extensive Healthcare Experience

Our interpreters and translators are well-versed in healthcare terminology, ensuring clear and accurate communication.

CMS Compliance

We adhere to CMS requirements, providing services that meet all necessary regulations and standards.

Audited Language Service Model

Our language service model is audited for CMA, HIPAA, and fraud, waste, and abuse metrics, ensuring the highest level of compliance and integrity.

HIPAA Certification

Akorbi is HIPAA certified, guaranteeing the confidentiality and security of all patient information.

Liability Certification

We are liability certified for all deliveries, providing an added layer of trust and reliability.

ISO Certification

Our services are ISO certified, reflecting our commitment to quality and continuous improvement.

Customizable Services

We offer customizable language services tailored to meet the specific needs of your organization, ensuring flexibility and satisfaction.

Proven Track Record

With years of experience and a solid reputation in the healthcare industry, Akorbi is a reliable partner for all your language service needs.

Partner with Akorbi Today

Improve your healthcare services with Akorbi's expert language solutions. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your organization with our comprehensive and compliant language services.

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