- Create a formal Medical Translation and Interpretation (MTI) Leadership Group comprised of key stakeholders that will oversee implementation of the 8 action strategies during a 36 month period.
- Survey a representative sample of professionals from all healthcare disciplines, to determine the specific scope and need for MTI services; barriers, and challenges to providing MTI services; and perceptions regarding MTI availability, cost, and competency.
- Convene a sub-committee of the MTI Leadership Group who will, along with local experts, systematically develop community MTI standards and guidelines for implementation.
- Increase the knowledge of policymakers and the general public in Lincoln/Lancaster County about the extent and implication of language diversity present in our community.
- Create a language identification card that NEP and LEP individuals can carry to alert healthcare providers of their MTI needs.
- Consolidate and enhance existing MTI services by creating a “dispatch center” for MTI resources that is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Develop and seek sponsorship for state legislation to standardize qualifications, education, training, and state-recognized certification of MTI professionals.
8. Seek revisions to state and national insurance policy to recognize the provision of MTI services in the clinical setting as a reimbursable expense.
