LACDMH Language Access Policy

Language Access Policy

General Policy Statement

Consistent with the Cultural Competence Plan Requirements (CCPR) and the National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services in Health and Health Care (CLAS), LACDMH recognizes and values the racial, ethnic, cultural, and linguistic diversity of its communities.

The vision of the Department is to “build a Los Angeles County unified by shared intention and cross-sector collaboration that helps those suffering from serious mental illness heal, grow and flourish by providing easy access to the right services and the right opportunities at the right time in the right place from the right people.”

The LACDMH mission is to “optimize the hope, wellbeing and life trajectory of Los Angeles County’s most vulnerable through access to care and resources that promote not only independence and personal recovery but also connectedness and community reintegration.”

In accordance with applicable federal, state, and County Policy and Agreements, LACDMH will provide equal access to all Limited English Proficient (LEP) consumers in Los Angeles County for threshold and non-threshold languages, as well as services in American Sign Language (ASL).

LEP consumers have the right to language assistance services, at no cost, in their primary or preferred language. They must also be informed in writing of this right and how to access these services.

Scope of Policy

LACDMH is committed to meeting the language needs of clients and consumers across all Service Areas and levels of care. This includes ensuring access to certified bilingual employees or qualified language vendors, including ASL interpreters.

The language access policy applies to the entire LA County Mental Health Plan and covers:

  • Directly Operated Programs
  • Contracted Providers (Legal Entities)
  • Administrative Services and Programs

LACDMH also offers bilingual bonus pay for employees who utilize a second language to provide services.

Key policies and procedures include:

  • Policy #200.03 – Language Interpreter and Translation Services:
    Interpretation and ASL services must be provided free of charge. Clients should not be asked to use friends or family for interpretation.
  • Policy #401.03 – Clinical Documentation for All Payer Sources:
    Special client needs and interventions, including language access, must be documented following standards outlined in the Organizational Provider’s Manual.

Documentation requirements include:

  • Preferred language must be documented in IBHIS or Legal Entity systems.
  • Language and interpretive needs must be noted in Client Treatment Plans.
  • When translated forms are used:
    • English translation must be printed on the back, or
    • Placed adjacent in the record with a note referencing the signed non-English version.

These policies ensure that language needs are met respectfully and systematically throughout the care continuum.