Barriers to communication between clinicians and immigrants
Sodemann, M.; Kristensen, T.Rønde.; Sångren, H.; Nielsen, D.
Ugeskrift for laeger 177(35)
2015
ISSN/ISBN: 1603-6824 PMID: 26324185 Document Number: 682677
Clinicians lack cultural competencies and communication skills relevant to clinical decision-making in cases of language and cultural barriers. Life course perspectives and basic understanding of life in exile are not integrated in diagnostics, treatment or follow-up resulting in low patient compliance, mistrust, complications, diagnostic errors and delays. Stereotyping and generalizations put patients in a position where they are forced to protect themselves by withholding important information. When in doubt clinicians should ask, listen and avoid guessing.