It’s never been more accurate that America is a melting pot of cultures and languages – and so are its healthcare needs. That’s why having bilingual staff offers a significant advantage for your patients, your team, and your organization.
• The United States is now the world’s second largest Spanish speaking nation after Mexico. And Spanish is just one example of an in-demand language for accurate translation and interpretation in our country’s healthcare facilities. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 8.3 percent of the population has indicated that they speak English less than “very well.” And in some areas, this percentage skyrockets as high as 45.8 percent.
Patients who are less than comfortable communicating in English can be at a particular disadvantage when it comes to discussing their health. Language barriers with both patients and family members can adversely impact care outcomes and lead not only to misinformation, but also bias, confusion, and even medical errors and physical harm.
Clearly, bilingual healthcare communication matters. Hiring bilingual professionals helps you to:
Improve Patient Experiences
Effective communication – in their preferred language – fosters comfort and trust as patients interact with their healthcare providers. Misunderstandings are minimized, patient satisfaction is enhanced, and adherence to treatment plans is increased as patients feel more valued and heard.
Enhance Quality of Care
Bilingual providers are better equipped to obtain accurate medical histories, more clearly understand symptoms, and provide more accurate diagnoses and treatment options. Ultimately, this results in higher quality of care and better outcomes.
Expand Your Patient Base
By having bilingual professionals on staff, you can reach out to a broader, more diverse patient base. This can increase your volume and solidify your reputation as an inclusive, accommodating healthcare provider in your community.
Strengthen Your Competitive Edge
Facilities and systems that prioritize cultural and language diversity often gain a competitive edge, as they offer something that sets them apart. This is valuable anywhere, but especially in high-diversity population areas.
Build Cultural Competency and Respect
All healthcare professionals and organizations need to embrace cultural competency as part of their mission. This means respecting, understanding, and interacting well with people from diverse backgrounds and belief systems. The ready availability of bilingual staff helps you achieve this goal.
Forge Enhanced Collaborations
Bilingual professionals help to bridge communication gaps, not only with patients, family members and visitors, but also among colleagues who speak different languages. This builds teamwork, collaboration, and care coordination.
AlliedUP Co-Operative, Inc., is committed to diversity as we match talented healthcare workers with top facilities in California and nationwide. Contact us today to learn more about joining our network and filling your most critical temporary, contract-to-hire and direct hire openings. We’ll zero in on and customize solutions for bilingual and all your current and ongoing staff needs.
