People who do not speak English fluently face a barrier when it comes to accessing healthcare in the UK, as they have to wait a long time for translation services.
Healthwatch recognised that 1.8 per cent of England’s population does not speak English well or at all. This amounts to over one million people in the country who are not able to speak to, or understand, their doctor when they see one.
While the NHS introduced an Accessible Information Standard for people with learning disabilities and additional needs, offering accessible formats when providing care, this is not given to those who cannot speak the language.
One patient noted: “I am worried that I will not be able to explain properly my symptoms due to language barrier and I am worried that something will be missed.”
Although they could access an interpreter, this often means they end up waiting much longer to receive care than those who do not need one.
If the patient has a serious condition, this extra waiting time could end up being seriously detrimental to their health.
With NHS waiting lists already exceeding 6.5 million people in September, and waiting times getting longer, those who speak another language may have to wait several months for an appointment.
As well as understanding what the doctor is saying or being able to communicate with them, lots of people struggle with medical forms, as they are unable to read or write English.
There is also a cultural barrier, and many patients have reported negative experiences due to a lack of cultural understanding from their physician.
According to Healthwatch, this has led to “discrimination and unequal treatment” of patients.
To improve the experience, and ensure there is adequate and respectful communication between the patient and doctor, it is worth considering hiring a private translator, who can interpret, read, and write without the patient having to wait longer than necessary for their appointment.