A diverse clinic aims to promote health equity. Which actions would best support this goal?

• A. Use interpreters when needed, communicate clearly, and build trust with patients.
• B. Speak only in English and assume patients understand.
• C. Use jargon without checking understanding.
• D. Limit patient-provider time to reduce costs.

Answer: (A)

Promoting health equity means removing barriers so every patient can understand, access, and participate in their care regardless of language or background. Using interpreters when needed ensures language differences don’t block understanding of diagnoses, risks, and treatment options. Clear, plain-language communication reduces the chance of miscommunication and errors, helping patients make informed choices. Building trust with patients shows respect for their experiences and values, which supports open dialogue, adherence to plans, and ongoing engagement in care.

Options that require English only exclude non-English speakers, using jargon without checking understanding creates confusion and misinterpretation, and rushing or shortening visits undermines the relationship and misses opportunities to address barriers—all of which hinder health equity.