Mitigating barriers in communication with migrants, results from a survey among health personnel

Background Ensuring equity in health for migrant is a challenge for society and the health services. This survey map the challenges health personnel face in communication with immigrant patients, and how they wish to mitigate these challenges. Results can be used to inform implementation of measures for health personnel to better meet the needs of their patients. Methods In 2017, we conducted a short online survey to map the experiences and needs of health personnel in providing information to patients and relatives with immigrant backgrounds. The questionnaire consisted of six questions with answer options and opportunities to elaborate free-text answers. The survey was distributed through two migrant health networks coordinated by the National Competence Centre for Migration and Health (NAKMI), and by the Norwegian Nurses Organization to different section members. 549 people responded. Most of them nurses (41.5%) and doctors (12.4%) but also other health personnel as midwives, administrative staff, physiotherapists and psychologists. Results Nearly 50% of the respondents stated that they experienced weekly or more often communication difficulties with immigrant patients. To overcome communication barriers more than 90% say they would use interpreters when possible, use relatives as interpreters (55%) and/or a multilingual colleague (50%). To mitigate communication challenges, respondents said translated written materials (66%), simple language (43%) or use of pictures, films etc (37%) would be of help. More than 80% believe an electronic resource that gathers advice on how to customize and facilitate information and patient education, overview of translated material and good actions and project experiences will be a good help. Conclusions There is a need for increased access to knowledge and resources that can mitigate communication barriers between health personnel and migrant patients. Key messages There is a need for a comprehensive system approach to communication barriers in the Norwegian health care system. Health personnel need better access to tools that can help them provide equitable health care to migrants.