Language Discordant Colorectal Patients Demonstrated Decreased Post-surgical Engagement

Area of Science:

• Colorectal Surgery Outcomes
• Health Services Research
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Limited research exists on colorectal surgery outcomes for patients receiving language concordant (LC) versus language discordant (LD) care.
• The study hypothesizes that LD patients may experience increased post-operative medical system interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between language concordance and post-operative outcomes in colorectal surgery patients.
• To compare outcomes between English-speaking (ES), LC, and LD patient groups.

Main Methods:

• A single-center retrospective cohort study analyzed colorectal resections from 2015-2023.
• Patients were categorized as English-speaking (ES), or non-English speaking (non-ES) further classified as LC or LD based on surgeon language proficiency.
• Bivariate and multivariable regression analyses were used to assess language concordance as a predictor of surgical outcomes, controlling for confounders.

Main Results:

• The study included 1137 patients: 607 ES, 97 LC, and 433 LD.
• Multivariable analysis revealed LD patients had a shorter length of stay and were less likely to contact the medical system within 30 days compared to ES patients.
• Significant differences were observed among ES, LC, and LD groups regarding colorectal cancer rates, elective surgery rates, and the proportion of Asian patients.

Conclusions:

• LD patients exhibited decreased post-operative interaction with the medical system compared to ES and LC patients.
• This finding warrants further investigation to determine if it indicates improved outcomes or a reluctance to seek care among LD patients.