Language Barriers In Medicine
Posted by: Amy S. Gurgle, Esq.
While it is not surprising that language barriers can create problems for doctors communicating with patients, a new study published by the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that "doctors' assumptions about communication -- what they deem important in communication -- may also have a role," according to this article from the New York Times. Also, the study found that resident physicians may underutilize interpreters in the interest of saving time, according to the article.
The article explains that doctors view the choice to avoid using an interpreter where they are pressed for time as "well within the norms of their professional environment." The article explains that doctors will categorize conversations with patients as "high stakes" or "low stakes" and then tend to utilize interpreters in only "high stakes" conversations. Time and costs associated with the use of interpreters are cited as reasons doctors are sometimes reluctant or outright choose not to obtain interpreter services to aid the patient.
As the article elegantly highlights, there is an intersection of "humility and compassion and professionalism" at play in the use of interpreter services. There can be no doubt that the first priority is getting a patient the care that is needed. However, the goal is to ensure that the patient is aware and informed about the issues and treatment provided.
We encourage our readers to actively participate in their health care and to speak up and request an interpreter when necessary to be sure that they understand their doctor and are able to communicate in a meaningful way with all of their health care providers.
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