How language barriers impact patient care: a commentary

Abstract

The population of the United States population is growing more diverse at a rapid rate through the 21st century. Health care providers are interacting more frequently with patients of diverse ethnic affiliations where health beliefs, languages, and life experiences may differ greatly from their own. According to Timmins (2002), "...the U.S. health care system is largely geared toward serving English speakers." This is because language is the most common barrier in any health care setting and has been found to be a risk factor with adverse outcomes. Health care providers and patient communication are positively correlated with improved health outcome. Health outcomes include medication regimen, preventive testing, and patient satisfaction.