Good health starts with understanding. Whether it’s discussing treatment options with a provider, understanding health insurance benefits or making decisions about preventive care, clear communication helps people make informed choices and take charge of their health. For individuals and families whose first language is not English, navigating a complex health care system is made even more challenging. That’s why Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas is proud to partner with Alce Su Voz, a program of Wichita State University that works to advance language accessibility within the health care system.
The partnership with Alce Su Voz is rooted in an important goal: ensuring that language is not a barrier to achieving good health. When people can communicate effectively with their health care providers and receive information in a language they understand, they are better equipped to make informed decisions, manage chronic conditions, follow treatment plans and access preventive care. Removing language barriers helps create a more accessible health care experience, ensuring that everyone can achieve their best possible outcomes.
Approximately 12 percent of Kansans speak a language other than English at home, and many report speaking English less than very well. Spanish is the most common non-English language spoken. While these populations may represent a minority of Kansans overall, language barriers can create significant challenges when accessing health care, understanding health information or navigating insurance and community resources.
Through funding from BCBSKS, Alce Su Voz is partnering with Kearny County Hospital in southwest Kansas to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the hospital’s language accessibility efforts. The project will help identify strengths, opportunities and potential barriers experienced by patients whose preferred language is not English. Following the assessment, Alce Su Voz and the hospital will work together to develop a plan designed to better meet the needs of the community.
Located in a region where many residents speak a language other than English, the hospital is well positioned to help identify practical solutions that can improve language accessibility and strengthen patient experience. Kearny County Hospital is committed to quality and continuous improvement. The hospital has demonstrated a willingness to explore and implement new best practices to better meet the needs of its patients.
Improving health outcomes takes strong partnerships with Kansas communities. By working with Alce Su Voz and Kearny County Hospital, BCBSKS is supporting practical, community-driven solutions that make health care more accessible for people whose first language is not English. Together, we are helping build a healthier Kansas where every voice is heard and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.