Journal of Biomedical Advancement Scientific Research

Abstract

The increasing influx of immigrants and refugees in Greece has heightened the need for accessible healthcare services, particularly for individuals with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) or non-Greek speakers. Effective doctor-patient communication is crucial for quality healthcare delivery, yet language barriers remain a significant obstacle. This paper presents a literature review examining the impact of language proficiency on healthcare access, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes. Studies indicate that LEP patients are less likely to receive adequate medical information and participate in decision-making processes. Research further highlights that the use of professional interpreters significantly improves clinical care, reduces medical errors, and enhances patient satisfaction compared to ad hoc interpreters. Moreover, the absence of interpretation services is associated with prolonged hospital stays, higher readmission rates, and increased healthcare costs. In the Greek context, studies reveal that immigrants with higher Greek language proficiency demonstrate better knowledge and utilization of healthcare services. Conversely, those with limited Greek skills experience restricted access, longer waiting times, and difficulty in communicating with healthcare providers. The findings emphasize the urgent need for structured interpretation services in Greek healthcare facilities to bridge communication gaps, ensure equitable healthcare access, and enhance patient outcomes. This review calls for policy interventions that prioritize linguistic inclusivity to foster better integration of immigrants and refugees into the Greek healthcare system.