The agency provides interpreter and translator services for the Asian and Pacific Islander language communities in Los Angeles county, through a program called PALS For Health. Services include interpretation/translation, cultural awareness/competencies training, and language proficiency assessment. Staff provide interpretation services so that monolingual or limited English speaking Asians/Pacific Islanders can access health and human services throughout the county. There are no geographic restrictions.

The program focuses on improving communication between patients and health care or social service providers. Interpreters are trained in medical terminology and are culturally sensitive to Asians/Pacific Islanders so that they can ensure accurate and complete delivery of information between patient and provider.

The program provides special outreach to Asians/Pacific Islanders who are at-risk, HIV positive or diagnosed with AIDS; provides breast health education in Asian Pacific Islander languages; and medical interpretation in API languages. In addition, the program provides written translation services, cultural training for health care providers, and language proficiency assessments for health care agencies and staff. The 2.5 hour language exam is designed to evaluate the language skills of bilingual individuals who interpret in health care settings. APPLICATION PROCEDURE Call the PALS number or walk in to apply or schedule an appointment for interpreter or translation services. A special telephone line is designated for people with limited English-speaking ability. FEES/PAYMENT SOURCE There are fixed fees for some services; call for information.