Point-of-care communication for patients with limited language proficiency: A scoping review of healthcare interpretation applications.

Abstract

Linguistic diversity has the potential to create barriers for limited language proficiency (LLP) patients when navigating the healthcare system. When a verified interpretation method is utilized, there are improvements in LLP patient outcomes. The purpose of this scoping review is to identify articles that outline applications used for point-of-care tasks between LLP patients and providers. The Arksey and O'Malley methodologic framework was utilized for study selection, data charting and analysis. Each application was evaluated on patient and provider satisfaction, overall feasibility, and time associated with interpretation. Eight peer-reviewed journals are included (four pilot studies, one prospective study, two participatory studies, and one mixed methods design). Applications ranged in number of unique phrases (32-1800 phrases) and number of languages supported (1-39 languages). Overall, the applications were feasible to use and assisted with basic communication between providers and patients. As patients and families become more comfortable with using technology, interpretation applications provide an innovative approach to streamline the interpretation process for point-of-care healthcare encounters. Interpretation applications may increase an LLP patient's access to interpretation tools which can improve outcomes. Further studies should focus on implementing robust evaluation methods to assess these tools and evaluate the LLP patient's perspectives of interpretation applications.