The Effect of Language Barriers on Chronic Illness Care for Minority Patients
Access to quality healthcare is a human right, but it is often harmed by language barriers. Language barriers can be challenging for minority patients with chronic illnesses. Minority patients may face more difficulties accessing and receiving the care they deserve. If language barriers are not addressed, they can affect the patient-provider relationship and the quality of care.
Here’s how language barriers affect chronic illness care for minority patients.
Impact of language barriers on chronic illness care for minority patients
Language barriers can impact the quality of care for minority patients with chronic illnesses. Research suggests that patients with limited English proficiency are less likely to receive preventive services. Preventive services include routine check-ups and cancer screenings. Also, patients with language barriers are more likely to experience increased medical costs and extended lengths of treatment visits.
Also, minority patients with chronic illnesses may have difficulty understanding their diagnoses, medications, and treatment plans, causing worsened health outcomes.
Language barriers can cause frustration and isolation for some patients. This can lead to distrust of the healthcare system. Patient distrust impacts access to healthcare services, as it can lessen their desire to seek care when needed. It can also lead to patients not adhering to treatments, leading to poor health outcomes.
Tips for addressing language barriers for minority patients living with a chronic illness
Below are four tips for navigating language barriers among minority patients with chronic illnesses.
Use interpreter services
Healthcare providers can address language barriers with patients with limited English proficiency by using interpreter services. Many interpreter services are available in person, over the phone, or through video chats. Interpreters should be thoroughly trained in medical terminology to provide accurate communication to patients.
Implement culturally sensitive language
It’s recommended that healthcare providers use culturally sensitive and appropriate language toward patients. This can help to establish trust and build rapport with patients while diminishing language barriers. Also, healthcare providers should use plain language and avoid medical jargon whenever possible.
Provide written materials in multiple languages
Every healthcare provider should offer written materials, such as medication instructions and treatment plans, in the patient's preferred language. This can help patients better understand their chronic illness diagnosis and treatment plan. An interpreter can help transcribe pertinent healthcare information to patients.
Build relationships with patients
A strong patient-provider relationship is crucial to delivering quality care. With this in mind, healthcare providers should take the time to build relationships with patients. This can help to establish trust and rapport, which can improve communication and ultimately lead to better health outcomes for their chronic illnesses.
Language barriers can affect quality healthcare for minority patients with chronic illnesses. Healthcare providers can diminish language barriers in their practice by using interpreter services, culturally sensitive language, providing written materials in multiple languages, and building relationships with patients. By taking these steps, healthcare providers can help to ensure that all patients receive the care they need, regardless of their language proficiency.
If you found this blog helpful, check out: Examining Healthcare Stigmas Against Women: Why Aren’t We Being Believed? and Resources for Black Patients Living with a Chronic Illness.
How Chronius Can Help
If living with chronic illness feels like a full time job, you aren’t alone.
That’s why at Chronius, we make it easy to navigate the healthcare system as a patient. Our online care management platform brings together all of your health records and offers a 1-click appointment prep tool that easily synthesizes your health story for your care team. You also can track all of your symptoms, identify trends, learn from vetted medical information, and follow a custom patient journey map. Plus, if you needs hands on support, our Care Advocates are available to help you with any issues you may hit up against. Personalized support as you navigate your care journey is what we are all about.
Interested in learning more and signing up for our waitlist? Claim your spot today.
