Even among people with health insurance, getting comprehensive, preventive healthcare isn’t always easy. Yet prevention is essential to keeping people healthy throughout their lifetimes. Many different issues can affect your or a loved one’s ability to get care, but the most common challenges fall into three basic categories. Keep reading to understand these barriers to health and medical care and our tips for getting the care you need.
Language barriers
English may be the most commonly spoken language in the United States, but we don’t have an official national language. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 67 million people in the United States, or nearly one in five, speak a language other than English at home. Even if you speak and read conversational English, medical terms can be hard to follow. If you have a relative at home who doesn’t speak much English, having an effective medical conversation can be nearly impossible for them.
Many doctor’s offices have started to recognize this issue, and many now employ staff members who speak one or more of the most common languages, such as Spanish or Chinese. Some offices also contract with online or telephone interpreter services that offer a variety of languages. But many patients still find that the best solution is to bring a friend or relative who is fluent in both languages.
Transportation issues
If you live in a rural area, there may be a shortage of doctors nearby. If you live in a city that lacks robust public transit, there may be plenty of doctors, but none that you can easily access. For those who have mobility challenges, the problem can be even worse. You might be unable to physically endure a long commute or have trouble finding a public transit route that can accommodate your medical equipment.
If you have transportation challenges, telehealth may be the best solution. Radically expanded during the recent pandemic, telehealth allows you to meet with a doctor from the comfort of your own home. Of course, there are limitations, including the need to visit a facility for bloodwork and imaging tests. Still, taking advantage of virtual visits can dramatically reduce your number of in-person visits while providing you with comprehensive preventive care.
Cultural differences
Every culture has its own unique norms. Within the healthcare field, this means that there could be a wide disparity between how you and your doctor view everything from when to seek care to which treatment protocol is best. For example, some people prefer that the doctor make all the healthcare decisions, while others believe that the patient should be an active part of the treatment team. Some are hesitant to take prescription medications, believing that natural, herbal treatments are best. Still others believe in stoicism and are reluctant to reach out for medical care at all.
Medical practices are increasingly starting to recognize these cultural differences. Many offices now go through cultural sensitivity training to help them better respond to individuals’ unique points of view. If you come from a cultural background that sees the medical profession differently than the standard American view, it would be worth looking for a doctor who is committed to cultural sensitivity and diversity.
Eliminating barriers to health and medical care
Your EHE benefits include a variety of ways to seek care both virtually and in person. We are committed to cultural sensitivity and we work hard to overcome language and cultural barriers to health. Just let us know what your concerns are, and we will help in any way we can.