AI for language access in surgical care: Patient preferences and an implementation framework
Medical Xpress
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Language barriers significantly impact access to quality surgical care in the U.S., particularly affecting Spanish-speaking patients who face communication challenges and inconsistent interpreter availability during critical medical encounters. A study led by Gezzer Ortega, MD, MPH, of Brigham and Women's Hospital, explores how Spanish-speaking surgical patients perceive emerging technologies like AI-based interpretation and remote video interpretation (RVI), as well as how these tools can be effectively integrated into clinical practice. The research aims to address disparities in care by evaluating patient preferences and identifying best practices for implementing these technologies.
The study highlights the importance of reliable communication tools in ensuring safe and effective surgical care. Spanish-speaking patients often face barriers such as limited access to interpreters, particularly during complex or time-sensitive procedures. AI-based interpretation and RVI offer potential solutions by providing real-time translation services, reducing reliance on inconsistent interpreter availability. These technologies not only improve patient-provider communication but also enhance decision-making and overall outcomes for surgical care.
The research emphasizes the need for a structured implementation framework to integrate these tools into clinical settings. Key considerations include ensuring consistency, reliability, and cultural sensitivity in AI-based systems, as well as addressing potential limitations such as technical challenges or patient skepticism. By involving patients and providers in the design process, the study underscores the importance of user-centered approaches to maximize the effectiveness of these technologies.
The findings suggest that AI-based interpretation and RVI have the potential to bridge communication gaps and improve equity in surgical care.
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Originally published on Medical Xpress on 2/19/2026