Keywords

Interpreter, translator, Arab American; Middle Eastern; English Second Language (ESL); language barrier

Abstract

This study analyzes the effects of language differences on healthcare services for Arab Americans. The research specifically investigates the subpopulation of ESL (English Second Language)/bilingual Arab Americans, in order to learn about the effect of a lack of interpretation services and therefore the use of family translators on healthcare treatment. There has been a lack of research on this growing population in the United States. Language barriers can hinder the already difficult process of healthcare. These barriers, combined with other barriers, such as cultural factors, can negatively affect healthcare treatment and outcomes. This study uses surveys to reach people in the community. Surveys were chosen since they can be sent out electronically and do not require much commitment from the participant. Limitations of this study include the small response size, as the target population is extremely specific, and exclusion of unilingual Arab Americans from the sample population. However, the quotations provided from the participants provided insight into the use of informal interpreters and the lack of translation services for Arab Americans in healthcare. Many participants expressed issues with the limited use or availability of interpretation services in healthcare. Some participants also commented on the issues with using informal interpreters, due to availability or specific cultural dynamics. The survey results were clinically significant and suggested that this culture is a unique group with language needs not currently being met in healthcare, resulting in barriers to care.

Thesis Completion Year

2024

Thesis Completion Semester

Fall

Thesis Chair

Vergara, Angela

College

College of Sciences

Department

Department of Sociology

Thesis Discipline

Sociology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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Rights Statement

In Copyright