1. (a) Sign language interpreter services, as set forth in Section 51098.5, are covered as part of the Medi-Cal enrolled provider service subject to the limitation specified in subsection (b). Sign language interpreter services may be utilized for medically necessary health care services and related services such as, or similar to:

   1. (1) Obtaining medical history.
   2. (2) Obtaining informed consent and permission for treatment.
   3. (3) Explaining diagnoses, treatment and prognoses of an illness.
   4. (4) Communicating prior to, during or after medical procedures.
   5. (5) Providing instructions regarding medication.
   6. (6) Explaining instructions for self-care and/or therapy activities, upon discharge from a health care facility to an unsupervised home setting.
   7. (7) Providing mental health assessment, therapy or counseling.
   8. (8) Obtaining or providing case management information.
2. (b) Reimbursement shall be limited to Medi-Cal enrolled providers employing fewer than fifteen employees.
3. (c) Sign language interpreter services shall not be covered for a beneficiary who is receiving services in a health care facility that is required by federal regulation 45 Code of Federal Regulations Section 84.52 to provide such services.

Note: Authority cited: Section 20, Health and Safety Code; and Sections 10725 and 14105, Welfare and Institutions Code. Reference: Section 54.1, Civil Code; Section 14000, Welfare and Institutions Code; 42 USC Sections 12101 et seq.; 28 CFR Section 36.303; and 45 CFR Section 84.52(d).

History

1. New section filed 8-21-2000 as an emergency; operative 8-21-2000 (Register 2000, No. 34). A Certificate of Compliance must be transmitted to OAL by 12-19-2000 or emergency language will be repealed by operation of law on the following day.

2. Certificate of Compliance as to 8-21-2000 order transmitted to OAL 12-19-2000 and filed 2-2-2001 (Register 2001, No. 5).

3. Amendment of section heading, section and Note filed 8-7-2008; operative 9-6-2008 (Register 2008, No. 32).