Strengthening Engagement with Low-Income Latino Patients

Latinos account for more than half of California’s uninsured population and are the majority ethnic group among all low-income residents. Survey findings show that, as a whole, they are less satisfied than other safety-net patients with their healthcare, have weaker relationships with their providers, and are less trusting of medical professionals. However, research also shows that these shortfalls are not the result of being Latino; but rather a function of education and language challenges. If health centers can adjust to and address these two elements, there is great potential to improve care and patient engagement for Latinos across the state.