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Conference presentation
Breaking Language Barriers in Healthcare
07/2026
Appears in Patient Centered Population Health NUR 4615
Abstract
Introduction: St. Joseph’s Medical Clinic (SJMC) is a free volunteer healthcare clinic, providing healthcare to uninsured and underserved patients. The identified need was many of the patients served in the clinic speak Spanish, leading to communication barriers. Language barriers in healthcare increase miscommunication errors, create separation between provider and patient, and reduce the quality care received. Aims: The purpose of this project is to reduce miscommunication by creating a bilingual intake form sheet and medical history form, including text in Spanish and English. The aim is to create and implement a bilingual intake form for SJMC by July 14, 2026. Methods: The group created two deliverables based off of SJMCs current forms that included both English and Spanish: (1) Intake form; and (2) Medical history form. The group took draft forms to the clinic so the nurses and physicians could review and provide input on improvements. All suggestions were incorporated in the pilot forms. Health literacy was considered with the development of the deliverables. Results: The group piloted the forms with 12 patients in the clinic. SJMC staff provided feedback during the pilot along with suggestions for incorporation of additional forms. The group implemented the feedback and revised the forms before sending the final version to the clinic staff. Conclusion: SJMC depends on in-person translators for their Spanish-speaking patients. Accurate communication between patients and providers can improve healthcare outcomes. The hope is this project will help to bridge the translation gap between provider and patient.
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Details
- Title
- Breaking Language Barriers in Healthcare
- Resource Type
- Conference presentation
- Contributors
- Sallie Shipman (Faculty Mentor) - University of West Florida, School of Nursing
- Copyright
- @ the authors
- Identifiers
- 99381837540806600
- Academic Unit
- School of Nursing; Usha Kundu, MD College of Health; Population Health
- Language
- English