Clarity ASL Interpreting Patrick Hoarty · NIC

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Know Your Rights: ASL Interpreters at the Doctor and Beyond

For Deaf and Hard of Hearing people in Rhode Island: your right to an interpreter, how to ask, and where to get help.

Do I have the right to an interpreter?

  • Yes, when one is needed. Doctors, clinics, hospitals and other businesses that serve the public must communicate clearly with you. This applies to businesses of any size.
  • They must give you a qualified interpreter or another aid that works for you. For simple things, like a quick question, written notes may be enough.
  • For your medical history or a serious diagnosis, an interpreter is generally needed.
  • The provider should talk with you about what works best for you.

Full info: ADA.gov: Effective Communication

Do I have to pay for an interpreter?

  • No. The provider pays.
  • They cannot charge you extra, even if an interpreter was booked and you could not make it. They can charge a normal missed-appointment fee only if they charge it to all patients.

Full info: 28 CFR 36.301(c): Charges · DOJ guidance on missed appointments

Do I have to bring my own interpreter?

  • No. A provider cannot force you to bring a family member or friend to interpret.
  • They cannot use your child, except in an emergency where someone's safety is in danger right now and no interpreter is available.
  • They can use an adult who came with you only in an emergency, or if you ask, the adult agrees, and it makes sense. They should not use someone who may not be fair or accurate, like a person who is upset or has a personal stake.

Full info: ADA.gov: Effective Communication

How do I ask for an interpreter?

  • Ask early. When you book, tell the office you need an ASL interpreter.
  • The office may ask for reasonable notice. If you walk in, they should still try to help.
  • If something is not working, tell the provider why.
  • In Rhode Island, you can also request an interpreter through RICDHH. You can ask for one by name on the RICDHH interpreter request form.

Full info: ADA.gov: Effective Communication

What can I do if I'm denied an interpreter?

You can file a complaint:

Where can I get help finding an interpreter?

  • RICDHH (Rhode Island Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing) runs a referral service:
  • Your Rhode Island Medicaid health plan can help:
    • Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island: Member Services, 1-855-321-9244
    • UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Rhode Island: 1-877-842-3210 (TTY 711), Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
    • Tufts Health RITogether: 866-738-4116 (TTY 711), Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Ask for an interpreter at least two weeks before your visit.
  • For job services: if you are eligible for the Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS), interpreter services may be part of your employment plan. Call 401-421-7005 (voice) or RI Relay 711.

Full info: RICDHH interpreter referral services · ORS services

What if they use video interpreting (VRI)?

  • The video must be smooth, clear and big enough to show the interpreter's face, arms, hands and fingers. The sound must be clear.
  • If you cannot see the screen well, tell them. An in-person interpreter may be needed.

Full info: 28 CFR 36.303: Auxiliary aids and services

What if I go to a family member's appointment?

  • If you are an appropriate person to talk with, like a Deaf parent at a child's visit, the provider must communicate clearly with you too.

Full info: ADA.gov: Effective Communication

Who else can help?

Is my interpreter licensed?

Sources

This page is general information, not legal advice. Last reviewed October 2026.