C.E. Credit. A Historical Overview of Language Access in Dentistry: The Impact of Language Access Protections on Oral Health Care

Abstract

Background: More than 67 million Americans (22%) speak a language other than English at home, with more than 25 million (8.4%) speaking English “less than very well.” Language, culture and literacy are intimately related. However, the significance of language is often overshadowed in the larger conversation of oral health and health literacy.Methods: Studies have shown language-related barriers to be associated with medical errors, decreased patient satisfaction, poorer self-management and worsened clinical outcomes. Alternatively, use of professional interpreters and other quality language assistance services enhance language access, resulting in improved patient engagement and satisfaction, increased care quality and better clinical outcomes.Conclusions: Ensuring language access for our patients is a critical component in achieving oral health equity. This article provides a brief history of language access policy in this country, discusses the impact of language access protections on the dental profession and recommends actionable steps for dental providers to facilitate equitable, quality care for their patients and communities.Practical implications: Maintaining and prioritizing language access protections alongside other nondiscrimination practices mitigates significant barriers to care and helps to ensure all patients are able to receive the quality oral health care they need.