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A language or communication barrier generally occurs between patients and medical personnel when a difference in native language is present or when the patient is hearing-impaired. Misinterpretation of patient complaints or presentations is a growing problem in the United States when English is not the patients' native language. Physicians, nurses, admitting and laboratory personnel, and many others are involved with patient care throughout the patient's stay. Language or communication barriers may negatively affect medical care and ongoing relationships among patients, providers, and facilities. Ongoing relationships include, but are not limited to, ethical and legal implications that may occur over time. Historically, 3 types of medical interpretation have been used by providers to overcome language barriers, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Despite the proven advantages and growing ease of video interpretation services, medical personnel are reluctant to use this solution regularly to overcome language barriers. Although the cost is high, further research and implementation of positive practices could help address the issues caused by language barriers in the medical field.[1][2][3][4]

When a patient presents with a language barrier, all interprofessional healthcare team members are responsible for finding solutions to ensure effective communication, as outlined above. This responsibility also falls on facility administrators, who should be tasked with providing solutions to this challenge as a matter of policy, as patients' lives may literally depend on clear communication. This can help optimize treatment and achieve the best patient outcomes; language barriers need to be eliminated, especially in this ever-expanding global community where healthcare plays an increasingly important role.