Language services

Schedule Interpretation Services

Thank you for working with interpreters to serve members who communicate in a language other than English. Our approved vendors are listed below. Click on a vendor to learn more about their services, access scheduling resources, and find contact information.

Interpretation services requirements

All contracted CareOregon providers must make interpreting services available to CareOregon members. Interpreters may operate on-site, over the phone, or via computer screen. 

In accordance with OAR 950-050-0160, providers must work with qualified or certified interpreters when arranging for or providing services to a person who has interpretation needs. Exceptions are allowed when the provider: 

• Has documented proficiency in the preferred language of the person 
• Has made a good faith effort to schedule a qualified or certified interpreter and has found that none are available; in this scenario they may schedule an interpreter who is not certified or qualified 
• Has maintained records that the person with interpretation needs was offered interpretation services at no cost and the person declined and chose a different interpreter, which could include a family member or friend 

Health care providers must provide personal protective equipment to health care interpreters providing services on-site. 

Occurrences for which CareOregon covers interpreting services

• Onsite medical, dental, behavioral, or social health appointments  
• Scheduling or rescheduling appointments  
• Appointment reminders  
• Appointment follow-ups  
• Relaying test results  
• Registration for procedures/admissions  

Use only our approved vendors

CareOregon pays for interpreting services so that members can access their covered health care services and benefits. We have contractual arrangements with approved vendors. Please use them when serving CareOregon members. Be sure to verify that your patient is covered by the Oregon Health Plan.

CareOregon pays only for interpreting services that providers coordinate through our approved vendors. If providers choose to coordinate interpretation services with a different vendor, the provider is responsible for paying for those services.

Language resources for providers

Our goal is to ensure that CareOregon members receive high quality, accessible, and culturally relevant interpretation services. Please refer to the information below for additional resources and supports.

• Vendor Intake Guide:This document provides detailed guidance on how to get connected to a vendor, what each vendor requires when scheduling for both initial and follow up appointments, and additional tips or instructions relevant to scheduling an interpreter.
• FAQ Interpretation Services:This document addresses common questions on interpretation services provided by CareOregon. It aims to provide clear and concise answers to help you understand how our services work and how to best work with interpreter.
• OHA Certified or Qualified Interpreter Registry. OHCIA maintains an up-to-date database of all current OHA credentialed interpreters that includes the interpreter’s contact information, languages interpreted, counties served, and availability. Search for an OHA credentialed interpreter here.

Mailing Request for I Speak Cards and “Do you need an Interpreter?” Flyers/Posters: To Request a printing and mailing of ‘I Speak’ cards and “Do you need an Interpreter?” materials, please submit a request via this form 'I Speak' Cards and 'Do you need an Interpreter?' Request Form

Please refer to this guide for additional instructions.

Have questions or feedback on language services? Call Provider Customer Service at 800-224-4840, option 3 or email laservices@careoregon.org. We’re here to help.