When you’re facing serious illness decisions for yourself or a loved one, clear communication with your healthcare providers can make all the difference. Yet for many families, knowing what to ask for and how to express their needs remains one of the biggest challenges in accessing quality end-of-life care.
A nationwide study by the National Alliance for Care at Home highlights that communication barriers still make it hard for families to get support during life’s toughest moments. The CONNECT to Care research, which surveyed 2,000 adults from various communities, including Black, Hispanic, LGBTQ+, Asian American, and rural populations, shares meaningful insights on what families want from their healthcare teams and helps individuals like you better advocate for yourself and your loved ones.
About our Guest Author, Transcend Strategy Group
For more than 20 years, Transcend Strategy Group has helped hospice and other home-based care providers grow, scale and create long-term competitive advantage.
Why Communicating with Your Doctors Matters
CONNECT to Care found that substantial portions of Black and Hispanic families are either unaware of or unsure about whether hospice care can be provided at home. In addition, many families are unsure how to navigate the Medicare hospice benefit. This knowledge gap can lead to not getting the right care at the right time.
But here’s the encouraging news! Effective communication can empower you to make informed decisions and ensure your loved one receives the care they deserve.
Here are some tips on what you can look for to help ensure you and your healthcare providers are talking to each other clearly.
What You Should Look for from Healthcare Providers
Access to Your Preferred Language
If English isn’t your first language, you have the right under Medicare regulations to communicate with participating healthcare providers in the language you’re most comfortable with.
The CONNECT to Care report found that more than half of Hispanic respondents indicated that having hospice workers who spoke their loved one’s language was essential for comfort.
Language barriers don’t just cause confusion; they can prevent you or your loved one from effectively talking about your care needs and preferences.
When choosing a hospice provider, here’s what you can expect from quality hospice providers:
- Written materials in multiple languages, not just English
- Access to qualified medical interpreters at no cost to you or your family
- Staff members who reflect the linguistic diversity of their community
- Clear, concise information that doesn’t get “lost in translation”
Communication Methods That Match Your Preferences
Different families prefer different communication styles, and your healthcare team should adapt to your needs, not the other way around.
The study also found that younger caregivers (under 45) often prefer text messaging and digital communication, while older adults typically favor face-to-face conversations.
Neither preference is wrong; what matters is that your hospice team asks about and respects your communication style and capabilities.
Consider if any of these limitations may be relevant in sharing your communication preferences:
- Rural families may face limited internet access or inconsistent cell signals.
- Some families need multiple contact methods to ensure they don’t miss critical updates.
- On-demand communication options (like patient portals or text updates) can help working caregivers stay informed.
Cultural Awareness and Respect
Quality hospice providers understand that effective communication goes beyond words; it requires cultural sensitivity. One study participant shared, “I would feel if you’re non-Hispanic, but you spoke Spanish and could communicate, I would have some type of a bond.”
This reflects a deeper truth: When healthcare providers make an effort to understand and honor your cultural background, it builds trust and improves care.
How to Communicate Clearly with Your Healthcare Team
Be Proactive About Your Communication Needs
Don’t wait for providers to ask; tell them upfront:
- What language(s) you prefer for discussions and written materials
- How you prefer to receive updates (calls, texts, portal messages, face-to-face meetings)
- Whether you have reliable internet or cell service
- If you need information provided to multiple family members
- Any cultural or religious considerations important to your family
Ask Direct Questions
Many families feel uncertain about what hospice entails or when it’s the right time to consider it. Don’t hesitate to ask questions of your provider to determine if hospice is the right choice for you:
- Can your hospice care be provided at home or only in a facility?
- What does the Medicare Hospice Benefit cover?
- How quickly can your team respond if we need urgent help?
- Will you respect our cultural and spiritual preferences?
- How will you involve us in care decisions?
Use the Teach-Back Method
The teach-back method is a communication technique that ensures everyone truly understands the information being shared.
Ask your healthcare provider to explain the information and then summarize what you heard in your own words. This gives your provider a chance to clarify any confusion and ensures you’re making informed decisions.
Bring Trusted Voices to Important Conversations
The research shows that personal networks, including family, friends, and faith communities, can play a crucial role in hospice decision-making. If having a family member, religious leader, or trusted friend present helps you feel more comfortable and understood, invite them to participate in your care discussions – a quality hospice provider will welcome this.
Moving Forward with Confidence
You deserve healthcare providers who communicate clearly, respect your cultural background, and make information accessible in ways that work for your family. When facing decisions about the care you wish to receive, knowing how to advocate for effective communication can help you feel more confident and ensure your loved one receives care that honors their wishes and values.
The path through serious illness is never easy, but with the right communication tools and support, you can navigate it with greater confidence and peace of mind.
Understanding your rights, knowing what to ask for, talking with your community, and communicating clearly with your healthcare team are powerful tools. Use them to ensure your family gets the support you need and deserve.
