When Language Gets in the Way of Communication

Communication barriers may impede optimum warfarin treatment, according to a study of data of 3,770 patients at the Massachusetts General Hospital Anticoagulation Management Service in Boston.

Patients with limited proficiency in English are at risk for preventable adverse events and drug complications, say the researchers who conducted the study. Warfarin, they add, has a narrow therapeutic range that mandates frequent monitoring and close communication with the patient.