Why use the Access Center?

The Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) is charged with oversight in the provision of interpreter/captioner provider services for deaf and hard of hearing consumers statewide. The Access Center (AC) is a program within the Kentucky Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing that schedules interpreter and CART services ONLY to state agencies. The AC was established in 1999 [735 KAR 2:010. Definitions for 735 KAR Chapter 2. Relates to: KRS 12.290, KRS 163.510(4) Statutory Authority: KRS 12.290, KRS 163.510(4)].

The primary purpose of the AC is to streamline the process of requesting interpreter/captioner providers for state agencies, thus saving funds by centralizing scheduling efforts. AC coordination services are provided at no cost to individual state agencies. The Access Center assigns interpreters/captioners based on individual need, consumer preference and availability.

KCDHH is mandated to use only those interpreters/captioners licensed by the state of Kentucky.

How do I request an interpreter or captioner?

To request an interpreter/captioner, you will need to contact the Access Center.

You will need the following information below in order to request an interpreter/captioner:

Requesting Agency information Date of assignment/appointment Deaf or hard of hearing consumer(s) name Start and end time

Assignment location Billing information (must have a specific name who will be responsible)

Once the AC receives your request for an interpreter/captioner, the coordinator will check all information to confirm that the requestor is a state agency. Then you will receive an email from the Interpreter Referral Specialist by the close of business or the following business day confirming the information received.

How do I know if I have an interpreter scheduled?

Once an interpreter/captioner has accepted the assignment, a confirmation form is sent to both the interpreter/captioner and the requesting agency.

Billing:

Each agency must have approved all billing arrangements prior to requesting the interpreter/captioner.

Interpreters/captioners are instructed to bill directly to the requesting agency. Interpreters/captioners expect payment within 30 days of the state agency receiving the invoice.

For more information about interpreter or capitoner rates, please contact the AC center.

Please read the State Agency Handbook on "Procedures for State Government Securing a Sign Language Interpreter/Captioner.”

Interpreter Referral Specialist:

Rachel Rodgers
(502) 573-2604 or (800) 372-2907