NYCCT Employing Interpretation Services Discussion Responses

please answer each post separately:

1.   Language barriers contribute to reducing both patient and medical provider satisfaction as well as communication between medical providers and patients. Patients who face language barriers are more likely to consume more healthcare services and experience more adverse events. (Bischoff, 2010) Poor-quality communication between patients with LEP and clinicians leads to decreased medication adherence, diminished patient satisfaction with care, and negative clinical experiences ( Hampers, 2002). The use of professional interpreters has been shown to result in fewer errors in communication, reduce disparities in utilization of services, and improve clinical outcomes. many healthcare institutions use interpreter services that increase the cost and length of treatment visits. language barriers have a major impact on the cost and quality of healthcare. Studies has shown that there were higher healthcare costs if there were language barriers. The increased cost were attributable to the patients using interpreters, they require more healthcare services and more materials. language barriers not only increase indirect costs to those who are LEP, but often increase direct costs as well, creating an additional economic barrier (Orminski, 2021). 

2. Language barriers are prominent in the United States (U.S.) healthcare system. More than 67 million people in the U.S. do not speak English or have limited proficiency. Most healthcare organizations do not provide interpreter services, leading to decreased satisfaction and seeking preventative health care (Jacobs et al., n.d.). Ethnic minorities suffer from higher mortality from chronic diseases. Research has shown that African Americans and Latinos hold at least one of seven chronic illnesses that hinder them from making a daily living compared to Whites. Individuals with multiple chronic conditions will lead them to interact with the healthcare system more frequently. Without culturally competent care, patients will continue to be dissatisfied with their poor quality of care. Organizations should emphasize education and training on culturally competent care and involve adequate interpreter services (Cultural Competence, 2019).

Education and training are crucial aspects within most organizations, but even more critical within healthcare organizations. As a leader in healthcare, I would implement multiple policies within my organization. Adequate interpreter services would be at the top. Next, I would continue recruiting minority staff, training to increase awareness, coordinating healers, and using community resources to aid our patients efficiently and effectively (Cultural Competence, 2019). Working together as a team and providing the resources necessary to aid communities will strengthen the community and have patients of all backgrounds feel safe and cared for within a community.