189845 Language Needs of Immigrants: Developing Sensible Health Communication Strategies

Tuesday, October 28, 2008: 2:45 PM

Holly E. Jacobson, PhD , Department of Language and Linguistics, University of Texas - El Paso, El Paso, TX
One of the unique features of immigrant populations discussed in this session is the broad range of language backgrounds they represent, even within the same language group. Development and dissemination of health information to immigrant populations requires a close look at language use, relevant literacy activities, and varying models of health. An unveiling of the many complex language and cultural variables suggests that current approaches to health communication, both written and spoken, fall short of the needs of immigrants. Suggestions will be made for more effective communication strategies, grounded in empirical research in intercultural communication.

Learning Objectives:
Participants will be able to: 1) Define two linguistic variables impacting health communication among language-minority populations. 2) Describe strategies for developing health information that meets immigrants' needs.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: My principal research experience is in spoken and written discourse in healthcare settings, in particular in multicultural settings.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

See more of: Immigrant as a Client/Customer of Health/Social Marketing
See more of: Public Health Education and Health Promotion