Hawaii Administrative Rules › Title 11 - DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH › Subtitle 1 - GENERAL DEPARTMENTAL PROVISIONS › Chapter 218 - COMMUNICATION ACCESS SERVICES FOR PERSONS WHO ARE DEAF, HARD OF HEARING, AND DEAF-BLIND › Appendix C - HQAS Levels

Current through June, 2024
Functional Description of HQAS Levels
May 20,2010
Level V
is a master
				  level interpreter-transliterator. This interpreter can function expressively
				  and receptively in virtually all situations. A person holding a Level V
				  credential should be pursuing national certification. While no restrictions are
				  indicated, this interpreter demonstrates professional judgement in accepting
				  assignments.
HQAS V+H
is an
				  interpreter-transliterator who satisfactorily met the requirements for local
				  Hawaii language competency in addition to the requirements defined for the
				  Level V credential.
Level IV
is an
				  accomplished interpreter-transliterator. This interpreter can function
				  expressively and receptively in most complex and technical situations. A Level
				  IV interpreter may accept assignments for one-on-one and group sessions, as
				  well as workshops and platform assignments. This interpreter is qualified for
				  most medical and dental appointments, and limited legal interpreting, including
				  client/lawyer meetings, and traffic or small claims court.
A Level IV interpreter should be pursuing continuing
				  professional education or national certification. A Level IV interpreter should
				  avoid critical medical situations, criminal court and civil court jury
				  trials.
HQAS I V+H
is an
				  interpreter-transliterator who satisfactorily met the requirements for local
				  Hawaii language competency in addition to the requirements defined for the
				  Level IV credential.
Level III
is an
				  intermediate level interpreter-transliterator. Level III is the lowest level
				  receiving a credential as a qualified interpreter. This interpreter may accept
				  assignments for many group sessions and workshops and most one-on-one
				  situations. A Level III interpreter should be actively involved in professional
				  development efforts.
An interpreter holding a Level III credential should not
				  accept assignments for legal, mental health, or critical medical
				  situations.
HQAS III+H
is an
				  interpreter-transliterator who satisfactorily met the requirements for local
				  Hawaii language competency in addition to the requirements defined for the
				  Level III credential.
Level II
is an
				  entry-level communication assistant. The Level II communication assistant will
				  be able to interpret during orientation sessions and basic tutoring sessions. A
				  Level II communication assistant may accept assignments where communication can
				  be interpreted consecutively in one-on-one situations, limited group sessions
				  and workshops; and may accept limited platform assignments when accompanied and
				  supervised by a qualified mentor.
A person holding a Level II credential should not accept
				  assignments for legal, mental health, medical, employment interviews or
				  critical situations of any nature.
HQAS II+H
is an
				  entry-level communication assistant who satisfactorily met the requirements for
				  local Hawaii language competency in addition to the requirements defined for
				  the Level II credential.
Level I
is a beginner
				  level candidate. A Level I candidate is not considered qualified for
				  professional assignments. This candidate may provide limited interpreting in
				  low risk situations as an unpaid apprentice when accompanied by a qualified
				  mentor. Further professional development is required prior to
				  reevaluation.
HQAS I+H
is a beginner
				  level candidate who satisfactorily met the requirements for local Hawaii
				  language competency.
(No credential is issued.)