Knowledge of Medical Interpretation Rights Among Individuals With Non-English Language Preference: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Abstract

Objectives: We aimed to identify demographic, acculturation, and health care factors associated with self-reported knowledge of the right to medical interpretation among individuals with non-English language preference (NELP) in California.

Background: NELP is a significant social determinant of health contributing to adverse health outcomes through barriers in communication, limited health literacy, and biases in care delivery. The ability of patients with NELP to self-advocate for interpreter services is crucial yet hindered by various factors, including a lack of knowledge about their rights.

Methods: This cross-sectional study used pooled data from the California Health Interview Survey from 2012 to 2021. Subjects were 12,219 adults with NELP, representing 2,516,157 individuals in California. The primary outcome was self-reported knowledge of the right to medical interpretation. Covariates included demographic, acculturation, and health care factors.

Results: Of the participants, 28.6% were unaware of their rights to interpretation. Married females had higher odds of knowledge, while recent immigrants (≤5 y in the United States), those with mixed language households, no doctor visits in the past year, no insurance, and self-reported poorer health had lower odds. Sociodemographic factors like age, race, ethnicity, education, and geography showed no significant association.

Conclusions: Nearly one-third of individuals with NELP lack awareness of their right to medical interpretation. Factors such as recent immigration, poor health, and limited health care contact are significant barriers. In addition to system and policy level changes, interventions targeting these vulnerable groups are needed to improve health equity and empower patients to use interpreter services.