Navigating language barriers in U.S. healthcare settings: Korean American immigrant women’s strategies and experiences

Effective communication is critical to delivering high-quality, person-centered healthcare. Patients who speak English as a second language often face language barriers that can impede their interactions with healthcare providers, leading to disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. This qualitative study explores how Korean American immigrant women (KAIW) navigate language barriers in the U.S. healthcare setting. We conducted thematic analysis of 25 semi-structured interviews with KAIW in 2020–2021 and developed two key themes: 1) Preparing ahead: making the most of medical visits (i.e., “Dr. Google” and “Friends can help or hurt.”), and 2) Make it make sense (i.e., Comfort vs. reluctance to engage, “It still eluded me even with the interpreter’s help.” and Leveraging support from family and friends). These findings highlight how language barriers contribute to health disparities and underscore the importance of recognizing language as a critical social determinant of health. Healthcare providers should be aware of the lived experiences of KAIW in navigating the U.S. healthcare system. Recognizing these experiences can promote more equitable, patient-centered care and help reduce barriers to clear communication and effective treatment.