NOTICE to L&I Language Access Providers per WAC 391-25-140

PERC Notice and Petition of Representation Proceeding

Interpreters are responsible for following the safety policies of the facility they are working in.

To provide spoken language interpretation, register with SOSi. An L&I provider ID isn't required to sign up.

Interpreter agencies and individual Language Access Providers/Interpreters may not bill L&I.

What interpreter services are NOT covered?

  • Services provided on a claim that has been closed or denied, except for:
    • When it is the first doctor visit, or
    • A doctor's visit to file a reopening application, or
    • A worker receiving a pension with a treatment order
  • A missed appointment for any service, except IME appointments.
  • Personal assistance on behalf of the injured worker or the provider, such as:
    • Scheduling or confirming appointments
    • Translating correspondence
    • Making phone calls
    • Translating documents requested by the client or anyone else other than L&I.
    • Interpreting anything for the health care or vocational provider that doesn't relate to the injury.
  • Travel time and travel related expenses, such as:
    • Meals
    • Parking
    • Lodging
  • Overhead costs, such as:
    • Phone calls
    • Photocopying
    • Preparation of bills

L&I's expectations for interpreters

  • Comply with L&I's Incident Resolution Process (IRP) for Language Access Providers (LAPs).
  • Accurately interpret everything said during the appointment, with consideration given to linguistic and cultural differences. Asking for clarification is encouraged.
  • Respect the confidentiality of the client.
  • Let the provider know if you have a relationship to the patient or client that could affect the objectivity of your interpretation-- or give that impression.
  • Accurately and completely represent credentials, training, and experience to all parties.
  • Don’t arrange appointments in order to create business or to fit your schedule, such as canceling or rescheduling a worker's medical appointment. The providers arrange interpreter services.
  • Don’t provide transportation to or from health care or vocational appointments.
  • Follow WAC 388-03-050, and the ethics established by the certification/authorization you have obtained.
  • Comply with all requirements of the facilities you work with, such as background checks and vaccination history.
  • Verify identity and comply with any other security requirement. (Note: L&I doesn't maintain this information for interpreters.)
  • Sign up for the Interpreter Listserv. Enter your email address, click submit, then check the box under "Claims & Insurance" next to "Interpreter Services at L&I" to stay up to date.

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