Francesca Gany, MD, MS and Ephraim A Shapiro, MPA. NYU School of Medicine, Center for Immigrant Health, 550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016, 212-263-8265, eas247@nyu.edu

Introduction: It is vital to examine the characteristics of Limited English Proficiency (LEP) and immigrant populations to understand their needs and create programs and policies that will work towards achieving optimal health status. Recent and ongoing assessments are particularly valuable in urban populations where there is a constant flow of diverse immigrant populations. There is insufficient up-to-date information on these often disenfranchised populations which impacts community and institutional planning. Objectives: We sought to determine demographic and health characteristics of LEP patients, and determine their corresponding needs. Methods: All new patients visiting a public hospital’s primary care clinic in New York City with a large immigrant population who spoke Spanish, Mandarin, or Cantonese were recruited and given an extensive intake form. Native and foreign-born patients who spoke English well were also recruited as a comparison group. Results: Over 300 patients approached over several months participated in the study, representing a wide range of demographic, linguistic, and health characteristics. They represented populations from over 25 countries. There was a large variation in needs with differences among language or cultural dimensions for issues like health literacy, tobacco use, and risk for depression. Conclusion: Variation in characteristics exists among LEP and foreign-born populations. Efforts to target the needs of these populations and take their varying characteristics into account are important for communities and hospitals serving diverse and vulnerable populations. This information can be used to create programs and address health disparities.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, participants will
• Understand current characteristics and needs of Limited English Proficiency populations, particularly those in urban areas.
• Understand the implications of these findings for communities and institutions including hospitals.

Keywords: Needs Assessment, Immigrants

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.