Factors Associated With the Perceived Need for Medical Interpreters Among Health Care Professionals

Area of Science:

• Medical Sociology
• Healthcare Management
• Cross-cultural Communication

Background:

• Increasing foreign populations in Japan necessitate improved healthcare systems for non-native speakers.
• Limited research exists on factors influencing healthcare professionals' perceived need for medical interpreters, especially concerning their experience with foreign patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors associated with the perceived need for medical interpreters among healthcare professionals experienced with foreign patients.
• To explore the influence of willingness to use interpreter services and professional roles on this perceived need.

Main Methods:

• An online survey was conducted with 88 healthcare professionals experienced in treating foreign patients.
• Statistical analyses, including chi-square, Fisher's exact, and Mann-Whitney U tests, examined associations between perceived need, willingness to use, and professional/demographic factors.

Main Results:

• Perceived need for medical interpreters was significantly associated with healthcare professional's age and willingness to use interpreter services (p < 0.05).
• Willingness to use interpreter services was influenced by age, professional experience, occupation type, and prior use of interpreters (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Healthcare professional's age and willingness to use medical interpreters are key factors in perceived need.
• Willingness to use interpreters is influenced by experience, age, profession, and prior usage, highlighting a pathway to increased utilization.