For The Record

Posted on Feb 3, 2015 in NEWS

With a renewed commitment to transparency and be sure that media are held accountable for their publications, the Department of Human Services posts its responses to media inquiries.  Entries include unedited email conversations with reporters, related emails between staff, and resource materials provided to reporters.  This is a way to tell the whole DHS story and the truth.  If you have questions or comments, please send them to [email protected].

Micronesians being switched from Medicaid to Obamacare
Monday, Feb. 2, 2015
https://www.staradvertiser.com/newspremium/20150202__Micronesians_being_switched_from_Medicaid_to_Obamacare.html?id=290507781

For the Record:

A friend called my attention to an article in the Star Advertiser (dated Feb. 2) that suggested that DHS did not translate the COFA notices re:  health coverage and transition to Health Connector.

In fact, the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Program translated the following documents into various languages:

  • Public Notices (summary of the changes/transition) in 10 languages:  Chuukese, Marshallese, Yapese, Pohnpeian, Kosrean, Palauan, Ilocano, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean
  • Offer of interpreter/sign language interpreters in 10 languages
  • Individual notices sent to clients in Chuukese and Marshallese

There seems to be ongoing confusion/lack of understanding in the COFA communities about the various information they are receiving; and possibly confusing DHS with Health Connector, or perhaps even the insurance companies disseminating information in English only.