Skip to main content

The likelihood is that you have provided or will provide health care to a patient or client with LEP.

Individuals who do not speak English as their primary language and who have a limited ability to read, speak, write, or understand English can have limited English proficiency, or LEP.

According to U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey for 2014-2018,  more than 21% of the people in the United States speak a language at home other than English, and 8.5% of those speak English "less than very well."

Individuals with LEP can include those with sensory impairments, who are Deaf or hard of hearing and communicate using American Sign Language, have speech impairments, or who are blind or have visual impairments.

Recommended Content

Your Obligation to Provide LEP Services: Four Factors to Consider

Article

To determine your obligations under Title VI, HHS regulations and guidance, and the Affordable Care Act, consider these four factors.

Serving Patients With LEP: Professional Responsibility

Resource

Clear communication is a prerequisite to providing responsible care, ensuring patient safety, and optimizing outcomes.

Federal and State Guidance on Providing Services to Patients With LEP

Resource

PTs and PTAs may have legal obligations related to serving individuals with limited English proficiency.

Interpreters and Translators for Patients With LEP

Resource

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.