Work

“The United States is a Diverse Place, and Learning about Different Ethnic Cultures and Ideas Definitely Help[s] Us as Providers to Deliver Better Care”: A Qualitative Interpretive Study of Primary Care Physicians’ Standpoints on Treating Immigrant Patients with Limited English Proficiency

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Underserved population, specifically immigrants with limited English proficiency (LEP), often do not receive equitable, high-quality healthcare. There is a lack of understanding regarding physicians’ perspectives on treating this population. This study describes the perspectives of primary care providers (PCPs) in the United States (US) on the challenges of treating LEP patients and identifies ways to improve the healthcare system to better meet the needs of this population. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 PCPs across the US and analyzed the data using grounded theory methodology. Three main themes emerged from the data: (1) challenges faced by healthcare providers in treating LEP patients, (2) strategies adopted by physicians over years of practice, and (3) practical recommendations for improving the current healthcare system to better serve LEP patients and deliver higher-quality care. Implementing patient–provider language-matching systems could significantly improve the care experience for LEP patients.

Source: Journal of Applied Social Science

DOI: 10.1177/19367244251375450

Authors: Sara Imanpour, Orliris Negron Perez

Institution: Pennsylvania State University

Language: English

Topic: Interpreting and Communication in Healthcare

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,400