Diversity: Grants Available to Promote Access to Language Services

The Office of Minority Health (OMH) is dedicated to improving the health of racial and ethnic minorities through the development of policies and programs that will help eliminate the persistent health disparities that have long plagued the U.S.

More specifically, OMH supports the identification of effective approaches to improving health outcomes, with the ultimate goal of promoting these approaches. Historically, access to language services has been a key determinant in narrowing health outcomes for limited-English speakers.

OMH, which sits under the Department of Health and Human Services, has recently made $3 million in federal grant funding available to promote equitable access to language services.

OMH has announced the availability of eight grant awards ranging from $300,000 to $375,000 annually for up to three years. These grants are meant to support equitable access to language services.

The following are some of the expectations that award recipients must meet:

• An environmental scan that identifies the disparities or potential gaps in language service access to limited-English speakers in medical or other allied health settings or services;
• A plan to review and revise internal written policies and procedures to inform individuals who are limited-English proficient (LEP) of Federal protection from national origin discrimination; and to support increased access to language services for LEP individuals;
• Finally, a plan to identify, develop and implement strategies to increase utilization of language services by LEP individuals to make informed healthcare decisions.

Those who are interested can learn more about how to apply via this link.

Applications are due by July 15 at 6 p.m. Easter Time. OMH is providing an informational webinar for potential applicants on June 24. Click here to register.