The Impact of Limited English Proficiency on Patient Experiences and Care in the United States

Almost half of the approximately 46 million immigrants to the United States are considered to have limited English proficiency (LEP). Language barriers create challenges for both patients and healthcare providers. A literature review of 24 articles examined the experiences of patients with LEP in the emergency department and inpatient care. Common themes included communication errors and anxiety, failure to seek and receive the right service, in-hospital complications and organizational risks, patient outcomes, and interpreter accessibility and effectiveness. Biblical context about equity of care for foreigners is discussed. Nursing implications of language-concordant care and advocacy for patients with LEP and the importance of these elements in nursing education are addressed.