Key Points
- The Hidden Health Literacy Gap: Dr Camit explained that English fluency does not always mean medical understanding. Many Filipino-Australians face challenges navigating Australia’s complex health systems, such as Medicare and NDIS, due to cultural and systemic barriers.
- Closing the Communication Loop: He encouraged the use of the “Check-Back” or “Teach-Back” technique to confirm understanding between patients and healthcare providers, promoting patient empowerment and clear communication.
- Avoiding the Family Interpreter Trap: Dr Camit reminded listeners that while family support is valuable, professional interpreters ensure accurate and complete medical communication, preventing misinterpretations that could affect care and outcomes.
University of Technology Sydney (UTS) School of Public Health Adjunct Fellow Michael Camit (PhD) shared insights on health literacy and why understanding health information is key to better health outcomes for culturally and linguistically diverse communities. Credit: SBS Filipino
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