Abstract
BackgroundWith increased international migration, language barriers are likely becoming more relevant in primary care. The aim of this study was to investigate the language barrier in paediatric and adult primary care, present its consequences, reveal how it is overcome, as well as highlight the use of and potential unmet needs for professional interpreters, using Switzerland as a case study.MethodsPrimary healthcare providers were invited nation-wide to participate in an online questionnaire on language barriers faced and interpreter use.ResultsMore than 90% of the 599 participants in this nation-wide cross-sectional study face relevant language barriers at least once a year, 30.0% even once a week. Using family members and friends for translations is reported as the most frequent resort for overcoming the language barrier (60.1% report it for more than 50% of encounters), followed by “using gestures” (32.0%) or just accepting the insufficient communication (22.9%). Minors interpret frequently (frequent use: 23.3%). Two thirds of physicians facing language barriers never have access to a professional interpreter, the majority (87.8%) though would appreciate their presence and approximately one quarter of these even see a cost-saving potential. Multiple consequences affecting quality of care in the absence of professional interpreters are identified.ConclusionLanguage barriers are relevant in primary care. Improved access to professional interpreters is warranted.
Highlights
IntroductionLanguage barriers are likely becoming more relevant in primary care
With increased international migration, language barriers are likely becoming more relevant in primary care
A participant working in non-hospital primary care who had failed to state if as family doctor or paediatrician was included in the overall analysis
Summary
Language barriers are likely becoming more relevant in primary care. The aim of this study was to investigate the language barrier in paediatric and adult primary care, present its consequences, reveal how it is overcome, as well as highlight the use of and potential unmet needs for professional interpreters, using Switzerland as a case study. Healthcare providers in host countries may need to care more frequently for patients with whom they do not share a common language [1]. Non-forced international migration further increases the variety of languages. In Switzerland, a country situated in the heart of Europe, which we shall use as a case study, the variety of languages and cultures is further accentuated by foreign permanent residents (24.9%) [4], of which the majority (68%) originate from the EU-28/EFTA countries [5], and migrants in the asylum process. While people originating from neighbouring countries and qualified foreign employees (“expats”) are normally able to express themselves in a national language or English, other migrants may, especially upon arrival, face language barriers, including when seeking care
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
