What is one consequence of language barriers in health care access?

Language barriers in health care access can lead to misunderstandings in care, which can significantly impact patient outcomes. When patients and providers cannot effectively communicate due to differences in language, essential information may be misinterpreted or lost entirely. This can result in patients misunderstanding their diagnosis, treatment plans, medication instructions, or follow-up appointments. Such misunderstandings can lead to non-compliance with treatment, increased anxiety for patients, and ultimately poorer health outcomes. Recognizing the importance of effective communication, healthcare systems often implement interpreter services or bilingual staff to mitigate these issues and enhance patient safety and satisfaction.