Accessibility & Language Help
Our commitment to providing culturally and linguistically appropriate access to services for all consumers.
Our Commitment to Accessible Care
Consumers who are deaf or who have limited English proficiency are provided culturally and linguistically appropriate access to services at South Central Alabama Mental Health.
Language & Communication Support
Free Language Assistance
Free language assistance for consumers with limited English proficiency or who are deaf. All interpreters are qualified as defined by state and federal law, with preference given to Qualified Mental Health Interpreters.
Interpreter Services
While face-to-face is preferable, we provide telephonic or video remote interpreting services when needed. Video relay services may be used for making appointments, but not for providing treatment.
Environmental Accommodations
For consumers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or physically disabled, appropriate environmental and communication accommodations will be provided on an individually assessed basis.
24/7 Emergency Response
We provide 24/7 response to emergency needs. For individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, on-call workers access TTY assistance. Toll-free Alabama relay: 7-1-1 or 1-800-548-2546 (TTY).
Emergency Language Support
For individuals with limited English proficiency, our Emergency Services/Enhanced Helpline utilizes on-site family members, interpreter services of the calling facility, or the Jennie Interpreting platform.
Diagnostic Testing
Diagnostic testing is accomplished by staff fluent in the consumer's preferred language, or by using a Qualified Interpreter (Advanced level on Sign Language Proficiency Interview for deaf consumers).
Policies & Staff Fluency
Notification of Free Language Assistance (NOFLA)
If qualified interpreters are offered and refused, or if family members are used to interpret, this refusal will be documented on an approved ADMH Office of Deaf Services Notification of Free Language Assistance Form in the consumer's file. The use of family members to interpret is discouraged due to the possibility of conflicts of interest. Individuals under the age of 18 will not be utilized as interpreters.
Staff Fluency Requirements
Staff providing direct services to deaf consumers shall be fluent, defined as advanced or better on the Sign Language Proficiency Interview, prior to providing services or by utilizing a qualified interpreter.
Consumers will have effective communication access to all services provided by staff proficient in the consumer's preferred language, or a qualified interpreter.
Need Assistance?
Reach out to us to arrange appropriate accommodations before your visit.