SPEAK Act of 2025

This legislation, titled the "Supporting Patient Education And Knowledge Act of 2025" or the "SPEAK Act of 2025" , requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue comprehensive guidance within one year to improve access to health care information technology for individuals with limited English proficiency. This guidance will detail best practices for integrating interpreters during telemedicine appointments, providing accessible instructions for telecommunications systems, and enhancing access to digital patient portals. It also covers the use of multi-person video platforms for interpretation and ensuring patient materials, communications, and instructions are available in multiple languages, such as text message reminders and prescription information. To develop this guidance, the Secretary must consult with a diverse group of stakeholders, including health information technology service providers, health care providers, and health insurers. Additionally, language service companies, professional interpreter associations, quality certification organizations, and patient and consumer advocates will contribute to the guidance development.