Language Barriers a Problem for Hispanics Seeking Medical Care, Says Report

Spanish-Speaking Hispanics Have Problems Communicating with Health Care Providers and Office Staff

Hispanics' are the largest minority group in America. Many Hispanics have trouble navigating Medicare for health benefits. In a recent press release, researchers believe that language barriers are a problem for Hispanics that are seeking medical care. Spanish-speaking Hispanics have a difficult time communicating with their health care provider, and have problems getting help from office staff.

Overall, Hispanics' have a less favorable experience in the Medicare managed care health care systems than what Caucasians experience. The ease in which Spanish-speaking Hispanics experience getting health care varies geographically for Spanish-speaking Hispanics as you look studies detailing their medical experiences in different parts of America.

Based upon survey results, Spanish-speaking Hispanics living in Florida reported that they had a better overall health care experience. They had better access to medical care, they were more satisfied with their medical care, and they were treated better by office staff than Spanish-speaking Hispanics in other parts of America.

Spanish-speaking Hispanics in California, New York, and New Jersey did not report having a similar, positive, experience. Instead, this group of people found it difficult to communicate with their health care providers, and found that office staffs did not help them.

Researchers found clear and distinct differences in the reports made by Spanish-speaking Hispanics around the country. The Florida residents that completed the survey came primarily from the Miami area. The metropolitan Miami area has a high population of Spanish-speakers. They also have a large population of medical providers who are conversant in Spanish as well.

This experience is not repeated around the country. Spanish-speaking Hispanics in other areas of America encounter more difficulties in their communications with health care providers. They also experience problems getting help from office staff.