‘Medical Spanish’ course helps physician assistants examine, communicate with Hispanic patients

“Fluency in “medical Spanish,” acquired through a one-of-a-kind education program at UT Southwestern Allied Health Sciences School, has helped Jill Conway, a physician assistant, uncover medical histories and perform physical exams in Spanish. It is knowledge that has enhanced her relationship with Spanish-speaking patients and improved the medical care they receive.

“Patients feel comfortable in sharing their symptoms, and I can better educate them about their health condition,” said Ms. Conway, a 2004 graduate. “It’s been very helpful.”

The Allied Health Sciences School has the only required, multisemester, linguist-taught medical Spanish curriculum in a physician assistant studies program in the nation, according to Dr. Eugene Jones, chairman of physician assistant studies.”

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