Language Access in Healthcare

Language access significantly affects patient-provider communication, patient safety, and healthcare outcomes. Eliminating language barriers improves care quality. As a result, the use of professional interpreters or language concordant care is recommended. Yet, persistent barriers remain. We conducted a policy-oriented narrative review of peer-reviewed studies, federal regulations and professional guidelines published between 2004 and 2025 on language access, interpreter services, and U.S. Health System reform. We found there is a solid foundation in place to support several needed steps to strengthen language supports for non-English-preferring patients in the United States. We recommend practical, evidence-based strategies for healthcare organizations, state and federal polices, and joint multi-stakeholder initiatives. To drive meaningful change, both federal and state initiatives that financially incentivize improved language supports are needed, alongside enhanced regulatory and enforcement mechanisms to penalize underperforming providers. Healthcare systems must prioritize professional interpretation, develop systematic methods to assess and utilize the language skills of bilingual providers, and ensure consistent availability of professional high-quality language services. Integrating language access and supports into technology standards is also crucial for effectively mitigating language barriers. Substantial changes are necessary to enhance healthcare experiences and outcomes for patients who communicate in languages other than English.