ABSTRACT:
Access to healthcare is a fundamental attribute of primary care, yet barriers often exacerbate inequalities, particularly among indigenous peoples. Language barriers, specifically, pose significant risks to patient safety. Despite limited literature on this specific context, this study aims to understand the global impact of language barriers on indigenous populations and identify institutional and individual mitigation strategies. A scoping review was conducted following JBI methodology. Searches included MEDLINE, BIREME, LILACS, and grey literature via Google Scholar using descriptors such as (Indigenous Health) AND (Language Barriers) AND (Access to Care). Two independent reviewers performed data extraction to analyze implications for public health policies, with a focus on Brazil. From 138 records identified across 10 countries, 41 articles were included. Results indicated that language barriers contribute to adverse health outcomes, including treatment non-adherence, weak patient-provider bonds, and worse prognoses. One study linked these barriers indirectly to the death of indigenous children. Mitigation strategies were categorized into individual professional actions and management policies. Key interventions included hiring interpreters and intercultural facilitators, promoting long-term professional retention to facilitate language acquisition, and developing culturally adapted audiovisual educational materials. The study strongly recommends utilizing intercultural facilitators to bridge gaps between primary and hospital care, and between indigenous culture and biomedical knowledge. Furthermore, extending the tenure of health professionals in indigenous territories is crucial for linguistic understanding and trust-building.