The PHPDA supports high quality, culturally appropriate health care in our community.

Language competency or understanding can be a barrier to health care for some patients. These patients can have trouble understanding how the U.S. health care system “works,” deciphering complicated health care paperwork, or even navigating their way to appointments. In addition, cultural differences may influence how a doctor can most effectively care for his or her patients. Culturally appropriate health care:

• Increases participation in prevention efforts
• Increases patient satisfaction
• Promotes treatment and medication adherence
• Ensures better, more positive health outcomes
• Decreases likelihood of medical errors and litigation, use of emergency services, and staff turnover

The PHPDA recognizes that interpreter services are key in providing culturally appropriate health care, and contracts with the Department of Social and Health Services of Washington to help provide interpreter services for Medicaid patients.