Gulfcoast South Area Health Education Center (GSAHEC) has launched a program to address language barriers in healthcare and community-based organizations. According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2011, more than 27% of Floridians spoke a language other than English, and about half report that they “speak English less than very well.” Research has shown that minorities and vulnerable populations are more likely to be re-admitted to hospitals within 30 days of discharge for any condition, and that Limited English Proficient (LEP) individuals may be at a greater risk for medical errors, longer lengths of hospital stay and avoidable readmission when trained language interpreters are not used. GSAHEC’s ACCESS Program (Advanced Cultural Competence Education and Support Services) facilitates culturally responsive solutions by offering classes specifically designed for bilingual individuals, health care staff and volunteers that are interested in becoming “Professionally Trained Medical Interpreters.” GSAHEC’s 40-hour course satisfies the training requirement to apply for National Certification. The next course will be offered starting June 14in Sarasota.

Gulfcoast South Area Health Education Center