Language-Discordance as a Barrier to Health Equity
Sachiko Terui, S Divya, Beauty Fosu Acheampong
Abstract
This chapter examines language barriers as challenges that affect language-discordant individuals in healthcare settings. It highlights how these individuals perceive their English skills influence their health and experiences in seeking and receiving treatments. In-depth interviews with 30 participants from 10 non-English speaking countries were analyzed using the grounded theory approach. Participants’ narratives demonstrated that language barriers affect their access to and the process of receiving healthcare. When accessing healthcare, language-discordant patients experience (1) uncertainty derived from unfamiliar healthcare systems, (2) skepticism and distrust, (3) vulnerability and discomfort, and (4) additional effort required for using healthcare systems. When in healthcare organizations, language-discordant patients face challenges associated with (1) identity management, (2) reduced effectiveness in information exchange, and (3) building and strengthening relationships. The chapter then offers application ideas for inclusive and equitable health communication practices for diversity, equity, and inclusion changemaking.