Translation Regulations Prompt Arizona Dentists to Join With American Dental Association
The dental industry has a lot on its plate. Several studies have shown that the nation's oral health is suffering. For example, research shows that 79% adults who drink soda have severe dental erosion, and children miss more school for dental problems than anything. But in Arizona, dentists have other things to worry about.
In hopes of delaying a federal ruling which would require translation services for patients without English language proficiency, the Arizona Dental Association has joined forces with the American Dental Association.
According to the Affordable Care Act, providers who collect Medicaid and Medicare are required to provide translation services to those unable to speak English. The rule, called Section 1557, took effect a few weeks ago.
Kevin Earle, the exec...