Individuals enrolled in Apple Health (Medicaid), Public Employees Benefits Board, and School Employees Benefits Board coverage - and those accessing behavioral health services - will not experience a disruption in care due to the federal government shutdown. In addition, health care providers will continue to be paid for the services they provide. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and share updates if anything changes.
Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) clients are entitled to language access services during health care appointments. We are committed to ensuring you receive these services from qualified interpreters.
Do you have language access or ADA questions or need to file a complaint?
As an Apple Health client, you have a right to receive accessible services from your health care provider. According to federal laws like Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), your provider is required to offer language assistance, including spoken and sign language support.
If your provider refuses to provide language access services, it can be considered discrimination. Learn more about nondiscrimination.
Let your health care provider know you need an interpreter when you schedule your appointment. You don't need to take any additional action.
HCA coordinates spoken language in-person, over-the-phone (OPI), and video remote interpreting (VRI) requests. Let your provider know if you need an interpreter for your appointment. Your provider is responsible for requesting an interpreter for your health care appointments.
If you have questions, visit the HCA Interpreter services (providers) webpage.
If you need an interpreter for your appointment, you may continue to schedule appointments as needed. Your provider is responsible for requesting an in-person or virtual (for telehealth) interpreter based on the type of appointment you have.
You can give your provider the Preferred Sign Language Interpreter List form, to help them understand your communication needs when requesting an interpreter.
Apple Health Expansion
If you are enrolled in Apple Health Expansion, your provider will work with your health plan to coordinate your interpreter services.
Email: Ask Medicaid
