Communication Barriers in Healthcare

Communication barriers in healthcare constitute a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities and have substantial implications for patient safety, quality of care, and health equity. These barriers emerge from structural, institutional, linguistic, sensory, cognitive, and attitudinal factors that constrain effective information exchange between healthcare providers and patients. This entry examines the conceptual foundations, manifestations, and consequences of communication barriers in healthcare settings for people with disabilities. It further considers implications for patient safety, healthcare systems, ethics, policy, and governance, while emphasizing the importance of accessible communication, inclusive healthcare practices, workforce training, and technological innovation. Addressing communication barriers is essential for advancing equitable, person-centered, and rights-based healthcare systems.