Why Language Services are Important
- Language barriers can interfere with patient safety, undermine the doctor-patient relationship and hinder open communication.
- Federal anti-discrimination law protects people with limited English proficiency (LEP).
- Both federal and state laws govern what you must do to provide meaningful language access to your LEP patients or members.
Language Challenges within our Community
Learning a second language is challenging and significant. Basic language proficiency often takes years to achieve, and even then, familiarity with medical terminology and concepts may still be lacking.
- 29% of all Spanish speakers
- 22% of all Asian & Pacific Island speakers
- 13% of all indo-European speakers
…speak English “not well” or “not at all” –
that is approximately 8.6 of the U.S. population.
The Census Bureau’s 2005 American Community Survey
Foreign Language Instruction
The PALS methodology combines the key elements of language learning, practical applications and impactful cultural learning to maximize results. Ask about our “Spanish for Health Care Professionals” program.
Advanced English for Health Care Professionals
Customized English sessions are aimed at medical professionals who speak English as a second language. Enhance patient relationships and improve written grammar skills for medical documentation, reporting or presentations.
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