Salem, Oregon – The quality of medical interpreter services in Oregon has come under scrutiny by a group of medical directors representing organizations that provide care to over 1.3 million Oregonians. These medical directors are concerned that state rules are impeding access to crucial interpreter services and exacerbating healthcare disparities.
Earlier this year, Oregon lawmakers passed a controversial bill aimed at improving medical interpreter access across the state. While supporters of the bill lauded it as a significant step forward, medical directors overseeing care for low-income individuals under the Oregon Health Plan believe more needs to be done to address the current challenges.
One major point of contention is the state’s requirement that healthcare interpreters in Oregon must undergo 60 hours of training to be certified, as opposed to the 40-hour requirement in other parts of the country. Medical directors argue that this higher training threshold is hindering equity and access to services, especially in rural areas and for languages with limited diffusion.
Despite the concerns raised by medical directors, the Oregon Health Authority has not shown willingness to make changes to the interpreter requirements, leading to public friction. Dr. Leona O’Keefe, a medical director at Jackson Care Connect, expressed dismay at the apparent lack of intention by the OHA to address the recommended changes.
The issue of medical interpreter services is particularly critical as Oregon aims to eliminate health inequities by 2030. Medical directors at the 16 regional organizations contracted by the state to serve low-income populations are urging for administrative changes to improve access to language services and ensure quality care for all individuals.
In a letter sent to the state in March, the medical directors highlighted the challenges posed by the current requirements, emphasizing the need for adjustments to enhance access to certified interpreters. They suggested lowering the standard for proficiency testing results and addressing flaws in the testing process that may be preventing qualified interpreters from being recognized.
The response from state officials defended the 60-hour training requirement, citing its role in ensuring quality and eliminating the need for a costly national certification test. While the state acknowledged the concerns raised by medical directors, they expressed reservations about lowering standards, emphasizing the importance of maintaining quality in interpreter services.
Despite the differing viewpoints, there is a shared commitment to improving language access within the Oregon Health Plan. State officials have indicated a willingness to engage in further discussions with medical directors to address concerns and explore opportunities for enhancing interpreter services across the state. As the dialogue continues, stakeholders remain hopeful that collaborative efforts will lead to tangible improvements in healthcare equity and access for all Oregonians.