HHS Takes Action to Make Sure People Who Are Deaf & Hard of Hearing Can Access Medical Care

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Advanced Dialysis Centers (ADC) have reached a [settlement agreement][1] that provides individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing with equal access to services at the dialysis center. Equal access is required under [Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act][2] and the [Americans with Disabilities Act][3]. This settlement came from a complaint filed by a family member about a deaf patient at ADC not being provided a sign language interpreter.

[1]: http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/civilrights/activities/agreements/settlement_agreement.pdf
[2]: http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/civilrights/resources/factsheets/504.pdf
[3]: http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/civilrights/understanding/disability/index.html

URL: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2012pres/02/20120217c.html