Experiences of older Greek patients with limited English proficiency in general practice: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND: Older adults from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds often face communication barriers in general practice, which compromise care quality and patient safety. Limited English proficiency (LEP) is a key determinant of these barriers, yet little is known about how older patients with LEP experience communication from general practice. AIM: To identify the experiences and preferences for communication from Australian general practice by older Greek patients with LEP. DESIGN & SETTING: An exploratory, qualitative, descriptive research design was used. The study took place in a Greek community club in south-east Melbourne, Australia. METHOD: Ten older Greek persons with LEP and two informal carers were interviewed in a mix of both English and Greek. Interviews lasted 20-45 minutes, were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and translated to English. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Participants described diverse experiences. The following three themes emerged: 1) perceptions towards, and knowledge of, participants' doctor's clinic; 2) experiences of communication from general practice clinics; and 3) preferences for communication from general practice and what drives them. CONCLUSION: The preferences and needs for communication from general practice clinics among this group were influenced by age and language-related factors. It is important to consider these factors when designing and implementing communication systems in general practice.