Using person-first language in primary care – woke or important?

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Mental health

Using person-first language in primary care – woke or important?

By Janet Peters
Mental Health Maori Carving
Te reo Māori is filtering through to all parts of our community, including primary care [Image: Peter Pruzina on Pixabay]

This article looks at the importance of using language that promotes respect, abilities and uniqueness when communicating with patients in primary care

Key points, Use te reo Māori in primary care to enhance communication with Māori patients. Establish what each patient knows and understands before starting dis, Pract Green w Pale Yellow
References

1. Swanson C. Real language, real hope. Te Pou, April 2017.

2. Heath S. How Overcoming Language Barriers Improves Primary Care Access. PatientEngagementHIT, 12 August 2021.

3. Health Navigator. Our use of medical terms. 17 January 2021.