In one study, investigators wanted to see whether pharmaceutical care that was provided in a language other than English could improve diabetes outcomes. For instance, in an article in Nurse Journal, the author highlights a systematic review looking at the effects of language barriers. In this review, 35% of patients who did not speak the local language were confused about how their medication worked. For instance, pharmacies can hire a trained interpreter to translate at the practice.2 Pharmacies and other health care organizations can also implement a technology-based interpretation service or another type of language-access program to reduce barriers. Finally, practices can collaborate with community organizations that supply educational resources to health care systems.6“Addressing language discordance in pharmacy settings is essential to providing equitable health care services and ensuring patient safety,” Mueller concluded.2References

Source: New York Times June 19, 2024 17:00 UTC