Latinos en Optometry has introduced 2 bilingual tools aimed at improving communication between patients and eyecare professionals, as disparities in vision outcomes persist among Hispanic and Latino populations. The downloadable resources, offered in English and Spanish, are designed to help patients organize key health and vision information while enabling clinicians to better assess risk factors and communication preferences. The initiative reflects growing recognition that language barriers can impede care delivery and outcomes.
According to the Los Angeles Latino Eye Study, Latino populations experience disproportionately high rates of vision impairment from conditions including diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, and many cases remain undiagnosed. Communication challenges may compound these gaps. Data from the Pew Research Center indicate that 44% of Hispanic adults report language or cultural differences contribute to poorer health outcomes
“Clear communication is fundamental to good eye care,” said Diana Canto-Sims, OD, cofounder and board member of the organization, in a news release from Latinos en Optometry. The bilingual tools include a practice-based intake form that captures patient history, vision concerns, and language preferences, as well as a patient-facing worksheet intended for community settings to help individuals prepare for eye exams. The organization said the side-by-side bilingual format is intended to support culturally responsive care as patient populations grow increasingly diverse.