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Patients With Culturally Diverse Backgrounds and Their Experiences With an Interpretation Intervention Combining
Ann-Louise Larsen1, Janni Tran2, Knud Ryom3
1Digitalisation and IT, Central Denmark Region, Aarhus, Denmark.
Introduction:
Back pain is caused and driven by a complex interplay of multiple factors, including cultural background. In healthcare, patients from culturally diverse backgrounds may face barriers such as language difficulties and a lack of cultural sensitivity, which can exacerbate health disparities.
Objective:
How do patients with culturally diverse backgrounds and back pain experience an interpretation intervention combining video interpretation, extended consultation time, and interdisciplinary collaboration?
Methods:
This qualitative study was conducted at a Danish medical spine clinic. Participant observation and previous research informed the semi-structured interview guide. Individual interviews were conducted with seven patients from culturally diverse backgrounds (four women, aged 30-62 years, representing three different countries) with interpreter support. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic network analysis.
Results:
Patients reported that video interpretation facilitated communication and respected cultural values and assumptions, with some women highlighting the importance of interpreter gender choice. The extended consultation time provided a clear structure, reinforced communication, enhanced disease-related knowledge, and supported patients' expectations. Finally, interdisciplinary collaboration further strengthened communication and disease-related knowledge, aligned care with patients' expectations, and contributed to a coherent structure, while emphasising the need to balance structured consultations with opportunities for patient expression.
Conclusion:
This study provides novel insights into how organisational adaptations support culturally responsive, person-centred management. Integrating video interpretation, extended consultation, and interdisciplinary collaboration promotes equitable care, enhances patient engagement, and highlights the value of organisational health literacy. Future improvements include involving patients in choice of interpreter and ensuring space for patient expression.
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