Cardiovascular disease in patients with limited English proficiency: A narrative review

Patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP) form a large proportion of the population and experience significant differences in care. A multitude of studies have explored care differences in patients with LEP and cardiovascular disease (CVD). This review covers several key areas in CVD care including coronary artery disease, acute coronary syndrome, heart failure, and several CVD risk factors. While there are no significant differences seen in door to balloon time between LEP and English speakers, important differences exist in coronary artery disease awareness and symptom recognition among LEP patients. Additionally, LEP patients with heart failure experienced higher rates of hospital readmissions and emergency department visits. Mixed evidence exists regarding CVD risk factors control such as diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia based on language preference. Employing key interventions that target multiple domains in health care delivery can address some of the care disparities seen among LEP patients with CVD.