Overcoming language barriers with foreign-language speaking patients: a survey to investigate intra-hospital variation in attitudes and practices

Abstract

The purpose of our current study was to gain a representative picture of current attitudes, practices and preferences regarding communication with non-francophone patients at the Geneva University Hospitals, Switzerland, examine how these vary across professions and departments within the hospital, and identify factors associated with good practice. Results will be used to identify priority activities aimed at building an organizational culture that reflects concern for effective communication with foreign-language speaking patients.