The changing landscape of healthcare communication in Italy: Perceptions and challenges in language brokering services

Abstract

This study investigates the evolving landscape of healthcare communication in Italy, focusing on the use of language brokering services sensu latu, including interpreting, cultural and linguistic mediation and other solutions bridging the language gap. With the country experiencing a significant influx of tourists and immigrants in recent years, the need for efficient language services has become crucial to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all individuals. The study examines the perspectives of two key professional groups involved in linguistically mediated medical encounters: language brokers and healthcare professionals. Specially designed questionnaires were administered to each group, and the analysis is conducted within the framework of sociolinguistics, complemented by survey research. The findings highlight various challenges, particularly in the ethical dimension, while emphasizing the potential for collaboration and service quality improvement through mutual adjustments between these professional groups. The results of this study can inform the development of training programmes and regulations that enhance the ability of healthcare professionals and language brokers to address these challenges effectively.