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Description
Background: Significant health inequities are caused by language barriers between patients and health care staff, resulting in miscommunication among adult Hispanic patients with low English proficiency, reducing medication adherence, impairing patient safety, and raising the possibility of medical errors. To address this issue, interpreter services, both in-person and remote translation, have been introduced in healthcare settings to enhance communication. Objective: The purpose of this study is to investigate the differences in patient safety and medication adherence between in-person and remote translation services for adult Hispanic individuals with limited English proficiency in healthcare settings. Methods: The proposed research involves five local community-based clinics in Marin County that primarily serve Spanish-speaking adults. The clinic's patients will be asked to participate and complete a short survey in Spanish about their experiences and preferences regarding translation services. Results: The studies revealed that in-person translators have better communication outcomes, promoting better rapport and trust, as well as improving medication adherence and patient safety among adult Hispanics with limited English proficiency. Although remote translators are more cost-effective and accessible, issues of technical difficulties, limited nonverbal communication, and a reduction in personal connection have been associated with this type of translation. Conclusion: Patient safety and care for adult Hispanic patients with limited English proficiency depend on effective communication. In-person communication is the most effective as it promotes understanding and stronger patient-provider relationships. To eliminate health inequalities, healthcare facilities should prioritize hiring professional in-person translators and training staff on cultural competence and effective communication methods.
Department
Nursing
Faculty Mentor(s)
Kendra Hoepper, DNP, APRN, PNP-C
Publication Date
Fall 12-2025
Sponsorship/Conference/Institution
Dominican University of California
City
San Rafael, CA
Keywords
Hispanic patients, limited English proficiency, in-person vs remote translators, interpreter services, patient safety, medication adherence, communication
Disciplines
Applied Linguistics | Nursing | Patient Safety | Public Health and Community Nursing | Public Health Education and Promotion
Included in
Applied Linguistics Commons, Patient Safety Commons, Public Health and Community Nursing Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons