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Description
Language barriers in healthcare negatively impact quality of care, patient satisfaction, and health equity, particularly among individuals with limited English proficiency (LEP). This capstone program aimed to develop and implement an occupational therapy communication protocol to address language barriers in a skilled nursing facility. A mixed-methods approach was used, including a pre-survey of staff, post-implementation interviews, and observational feedback to evaluate communication practices, interpreter use, and staff confidence. A total of 25 staff members completed the pre-survey, with additional insights gathered through interviews and observations following implementation. Interventions included staff education on interpreter services and culturally responsive care, along with the development of bilingual communication tools, personalized resident posters, and a Language Line training video. The Person–Environment–Occupation (PEO) model guided the program by addressing environmental and occupational factors to improve communication and participation. Findings indicated increased staff awareness of language barriers, improved confidence in communication, and greater use of interpreter resources. This program highlights the importance of structured communication strategies in supporting LEP populations and demonstrates the role of occupational therapy in promoting equitable, client-centered care. Future efforts should focus on long-term evaluation of interpreter use, expansion of multilingual resources, and continued integration of communication protocols into routine practice.
Publication Date
Spring 4-22-2026
Publisher
University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences
Keywords
Language barriers, Healthcare system, Communication barriers
Medical Subject Headings
Patient satisfaction, Health equity, Limited English proficiency, Occupational therapy
Disciplines
Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy
Recommended Citation
Altunbulak, G., King, R., & Hoffman, L. (2026, April 22). Language Barriers in the Healthcare System. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2026/1
Comments
Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences April 22, 2026.