Connecticut House Bill HB05651

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/19
• Refer: 1/18/19

Caption

An Act Requiring Pharmacies To Provide Free Language Translation Services To Patients With Limited English Proficiency.

Impact

The implementation of HB 5651 is expected to significantly impact pharmacies across the state. It will necessitate that these establishments not only comply with the new regulations but also develop or enhance systems to provide effective language support. This could lead to increased operational costs for pharmacies, particularly smaller, independent ones, which may face challenges in adapting to the new requirements. Additionally, the bill is designed to promote inclusivity and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their language skills, have the ability to fully understand and engage with their healthcare providers.

Summary

House Bill 5651 aims to enhance accessibility in healthcare by requiring pharmacies to provide free language translation services to patients with limited English proficiency. This initiative seeks to address the barriers that non-English speakers face in understanding their medications and health information. By mandating pharmacies to offer these services, the bill emphasizes equitable healthcare access and aims to improve patient outcomes through better communication.

Contention

While many advocates support HB 5651 as a positive step towards inclusivity in healthcare, there may be concerns regarding the practical aspects of implementation. Some stakeholders have expressed worries about the financial implications for pharmacies, particularly regarding the potential administrative burden and costs associated with providing translation services. Additionally, there may be differing opinions on the effectiveness of such services and whether they can be provided adequately, which might lead to discussions about standards and best practices in translation services. These points of contention highlight the need for a balanced approach to ensuring that both patients and pharmacies are supported under the new mandates.