Which measures are used to overcome linguistic barriers in healthcare?

• A. Hiring bilingual staff, interpreters, translators, multilingual documents, and digital translation apps
• B. Relying on patients to learn English
• C. Using only English signage
• D. Relying on family members to translate without policy

Answer: (A)

Language access in healthcare is about ensuring patients understand and are understood, which improves safety and quality of care. The best approach combines several measures: hiring bilingual staff so patients can communicate directly with clinicians; interpreters who provide real-time language support, whether in person or by telephone or video; translators for written materials and patient education; and multilingual documents and signage so information is available in patients' preferred languages. Digital translation apps can supplement but should not replace professional interpretation, especially for critical information. This approach addresses communication barriers, supports informed consent, reduces medical errors, and helps meet legal and ethical obligations to provide equitable care. Relying on patients to learn English excludes many people; using English signage only excludes non-English speakers; and relying on family members to translate risks inaccuracies, breaches confidentiality, and lacks professional training.