General practice communication: experiences of older Greek patients with limited English proficiency

Older adults from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds often face communication barriers in general practice, which compromise care quality and patient safety. Limited English Proficiency is a key determinant of these barriers, yet little is known about how older, LEP patients experience communication from general practice.

To identify the experiences and preferences for communication from Australian general practice by older Greek patients with limited English proficiency.

An exploratory, qualitative, descriptive research design was used. The study took place in a Greek community club in South-East Melbourne.

Ten older Greek persons with limited English proficiency and two informal carers were interviewed in a mix of both English and Greek. Interviews lasted 20-45 minutes, were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and translated to English. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Participants described diverse experiences, three themes emerged: 1) The 'good doctor' and 'good clinic': being a person or place that provides them with a range of communication modalities tailored to their needs, is comfortable and accessible, and provides essential health services on-site; 2) Communication experiences with healthcare professionals, including the communication methods used and the reasons for their use; and 3) The diverse range of preferences for communication, particularly in relation to technology, which were often due to their age and English proficiency.

The preferences and needs for communication from general practice clinics amongst this group was influenced by age and language related factors. It is important to consider these factors when designing, and implementing communication systems in general practice.