SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Recommendations for Handoffs of Patients With Limited English Proficiency (Lep) Through Multidisciplinary Abductive Thematic Approach

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This document describes a project on equity in patient handoff practices, with a focus on patients with limited English proficiency (LEP). In Phase 1, a qualitative survey was administered to 11 providers using Google Forms to identify surprising findings, hidden assumptions or biases, new questions, and recommendations for improving handoffs for LEP patients.<br /><br />The main outcome was a set of practical handoff recommendations. Providers are advised to clearly state the patient’s preferred language and whether interpreter services were used, including which interpretation method worked best. Handoffs should also note health literacy concerns, such as difficulty understanding medical concepts, and suggest simplified communication or educational tools. Cultural considerations should be explicitly documented, including beliefs or practices that may affect care, decision-making, or religious preferences. Family involvement should be clarified, especially when family members play a role in communication or decision-making, while still emphasizing the need for professional interpreters.<br /><br />The document also highlights what not to do. Clinicians should not assume language needs are obvious, should not rely on family members for medical interpretation, and should avoid vague documentation. A standardized handoff tool with a dedicated section for LEP-related issues is recommended. Cultural or religious preferences should not be overlooked, and providers should not assume that prior communication strategies will automatically work again without being specified.<br /><br />Phase 2 involved observing 24 handoffs using a structured guide and field notes, followed by analysis with a panel of hospitalists, medical students, and design experts using the same framework. Overall, the project aims to improve communication quality and reduce inequities for patients with LEP during clinical handoffs.

Asset Subtitle

Sandra Kong

Meta Tag

Author List Harrison Tran, Julie Woods, Monisha Bhatia, Ritu Bansal, Sahib Singh, Sandra Kong

Category Research

Concept Patient Handoff

Concept Limited English Proficiency

Concept Preferred Language

Concept Interpreter Use

Concept Language Needs

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization John Hopkins University

Presenting Author Sandra Kong

Track Transitions of Care

Keywords

patient handoff

equity in healthcare

limited English proficiency

interpreter services

health literacy

cultural considerations

standardized handoff tool

clinical communication

family involvement

handoff recommendations

Patient Handoff

Limited English Proficiency

Preferred Language

Interpreter Use

Language Needs