Communication Access at DHHS

Information about how to get communication and language assistance at the Department of Health and Human Services

New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is committed to providing language and communication services that are accessible and inclusive to all, including individuals who are Deaf or have hearing loss, are blind or have low vision, or people who have limited English proficiency (LEP). If you need help understanding or accessing our programs, services or written materials, we have services available to enable your full participation. We recognize that effective communication is essential. It is our goal to ensure effective communication and access to all Department programs, services, or activities.

Under federal and state laws, you have the right to receive language and communication access services at no cost to you. Free communication and language services include:

In-person interpreting on-site
Video remote interpreting (VRI)
Over-the-phone interpreting (OPI)
Written translations of vital documents
Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART)
Auxiliary aids to assist with communication and vision while working with us
Written information in other formats (large print, audio, accessible electronic formats, other formats).

All DHHS District Offices have ADA Toolkits and tablets for video remote interpreting available for staff to use when supporting individuals in need of language and communication access.

All Department staff have been trained on how to arrange for interpreters, written translation, and use of auxiliary aids and services.

Please tell us if your primary language is not English, or if you have a need for accommodation for communication. DHHS will provide a qualified interpreter, written translations and/or auxiliary aids and services at no cost to you.

You can contact any DHHS staff member or the Communication Access Team to request language services and accommodations.

Information for Healthcare Providers

The Office of Health Equity provides guidance and support to service providers throughout DHHS' system of care about languages and communication access.

Technical assistance and strategic guidance for language access planning
Trainings and presentations on language and communication access
Demonstration of auxiliary aids and accommodations
Coming soon: Language Toolkit for NH Healthcare Providers

Local Resources

Links to additional New Hampshire state agencies

Notice on Non-Discrimination

NH Department of Health and Human Services complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex (including sex characteristics and intersex traits), pregnancy or related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity and sex stereotypes. NH DHHS does not exclude people or treat them less favorably because of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.