The impact of workforce education doesn’t end with the student. In health care settings, it can ripple outward to patients and communities.
A new case study from Oregon State University highlights a collaboration between Providence Health & Services and OSU focused on expanding access to language training for health care providers.
Language training with patient care in mind
The Oregon State online Microcredential in Medical Spanish is specifically designed for health care providers. The three-course offering covers terminology, cultural topics and medical issues commonly encountered in clinical settings.
“I wanted to include the most important elements that are needed to effectively and empathically treat Spanish-speaking patients,” said Laura Mulas, Oregon State Spanish instructor and former nurse.
Since the microcredential launched, Mulas has received positive feedback from students.
“Students have expressed how much they have learned and strengthened their Spanish communication skills. More importantly, they say they feel more confident in their interactions with Spanish-speaking patients after taking these courses,” she said.
The case study examines why medical Spanish training is critical in health care settings and why organizations like Providence are investing in these opportunities for their staff.
Read the full case study for details on provider participation and organizational motivation.
Expanding workforce education
Oregon State’s Corporate and Workforce Education Unit collaborates with more than 130 organizations worldwide, delivering high-quality educational experiences to students through innovative learning pathways, including microcredentials, certificates and full degree programs.
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