Language Between Doctor and Patient

It is extremely important that the communication between the patient and the caregiver be open even if there are constraints such as culture, language, status (socioeconomic), race, gender or disabilities.

Language is a big barrier between doctor and patient if the doctor cannot communicate. The relationship is difficult and the patient has a problem with warming up to the doctor. The patient may have a hard time telling the doctor what is wrong and how they feel simply because they do not understand each other. Patients with low socioeconomic status (SES) may feel less satisfied with their medical care. They will wind up asking fewer questions and follow doctor's orders but not understanding too much about it. They do not get much information from written material because they do not understand them. "90 million people in the U.S. suffer from health literacy challenges" ( duPre, pg. 5). It is hard for the doctor to find other treatments because of the patient's limited means.

As far as gender is concerned, females build a better partnership relationship with their doctors than males do. They are more knowledgeable on health issues and prefer female doctors. Men really don't have a preference. Females are more open about their concerns whereas men tend to hind more. However when it comes to gay and lesbian patients, things change. They are often given substandard care because doctors either misunderstand or are not aware of their behaviors. Although we have come a long way, they still have a feeling of social rejection and sometimes don't even open up to their doctor. This can cause misdiagnosis and even worse, mistreatments.

Race is another issue. It is important that patients of a different race talk about where they are from. There are a lot of hereditary diseases associated with different races, even from different locations. If these are not discussed, it can limit the life expectancy of that patient. People of color often distrust the medical establishment. They are of high risk with low knowledge, not as well informed of health issues. "People of color often become seriously ill before seeking treatment" ( duPre, Pg. 12). With less access to medical Facilities, no insurance and inability to pay bills, they may be discouraged to come back for the care that they need.

Individuals with disabilities have another kind of problem. Doctors are not fully trained to handle people with disabilities and often only see the disability or totally ignore

...