Implementation of a Spanish-Language Neurology Clinic: Patient Demographics and Perceptions
William Barbosa1, Natalia Chunga Iturry2, Irene Richard1, Nimish Mohile1, Robert Holloway1, Blanca Valdovinos1
1University of Rochester Medical Center, 2Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center Shreveport
Objective:
To assess the demographics and perceptions of Hispanic patients receiving care at the University of Rochester (UR) Spanish-Language Neurology clinic
Background:
Healthcare inequities for Hispanic patients are driven by structural and social determinants of health (SDOH).  Language barriers can result in unequal access to care, worsened health outcomes, decreased patient satisfaction, and limited participation in clinical research. To address these concerns, we established a Spanish-Language Neurology clinic.  Our study aimed to learn about the population being served and explore the impact of a language concordant clinic.
Design/Methods:

A one-time, anonymous, self-administered, 18-item, written questionnaire survey in Spanish was conducted.  Participants were recruited at the UR Spanish-Language Neurology clinic over a 12-month period. This study was approved by the UR Institutional Review Board, and participation was voluntary and offered to all patients.  Descriptive statistics of demographics and graded impact scores of healthcare preferences were calculated.

Results:

60 participants completed the questionnaire. 68% were female, median age range was 55-64, and 78% identified as Puerto Rican.  The most common level of education was a high school degree equivalent and 73% had an annual income of ≤$25,000. 25% lacked reliable access to internet and 8% had no means of transportation. The ability to communicate in Spanish with their doctor was extremely important for 90%.  Opportunities to participate in clinical research had been offered to 8% while 48% stated they would participate if given the option.  95% of participants were very satisfied with their care.

Conclusions:

In a Spanish-Language Neurology clinic, language concordance was perceived as extremely important and patient satisfaction was very high. Most respondents had never been offered participation in clinical research despite nearly half reporting interest. SDOH remain a concern for Hispanic patients and future studies are warranted to examine the impact of language concordant clinics on health outcomes.

10.1212/WNL.0000000000212079
Disclaimer: Abstracts were not reviewed by Neurology® and do not reflect the views of Neurology® editors or staff.