My patient doesn’t speak English. Can they participate in DSME?

Yes! Translation services are often available for DSME patients.

Ensuring that DSME materials are delivered in a way that is easy to understand is an important element in successful DSME. Translation services are thus a necessary component of DSME.

Some DSME providers offer DSME in non-English languages. Please call your preferred DSME provider to determine if they offer the language your patient needs. The translation may be in-person or over the phone.

Find a DSME provider in your local area >

If your preferred DSME provider does not offer the language your patient needs, please contact the patient’s Medicaid Managed Care Plan and request interpretation services for your patient. The DSME provider can also request these services.

Contact patient’s Medicaid Managed Care plan >