Skip to main content

Any provider receiving federal funds, such as Medicare, can’t legally require patients with limited English proficiency to use a family member or friend as an interpreter. Even the use of bilingual staff who are not trained medical interpreters should be avoided.

Review National CLAS guidelines from HHS.

Log in or create a free account to keep reading.


Join APTA to get unlimited access to content.


You Might Also Like...

Article

Expanded Access to Interdisciplinary Evidence Resources Available for Members

Apr 15, 2026

EBSCO has expanded its already extensive online library of articles, journals, e-books, and other academic and clinical resources by adding content from

Article

APTA Payment Advocacy Summit: Advancing the Fight for Fair Payment

Apr 15, 2026

On July 10–11 in Portland, Ore., APTA will host the APTA Payment Advocacy Summit, designed to connect APTA member advocates, PT business leaders, payment

Article

New Payment Resources Help PTs Engage in and Be Paid for Value-Based Care

Apr 8, 2026

Physical therapists and other therapy practitioners now have new resources to prepare them to thrive in value-based care environments. "Value-Based Care