Case study: Communication, language, and care with a person of Mexican heritage with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Mr. Jose Garcia is a 57-year-old man who identifies culturally as Mexican American or a person of Mexican heritage. He recently presented at the behest of his wife to his primary care physician (PCP) with symptoms of type 2 diabetes such as frequent urination, increased thirst, blurry vision, and tingling in his hands (American Diabetes Association 2017). His blood glucose was 210 and his A1C was 9.5. Mr. Garcia was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and was provided with educational information in English and a prescription for metformin 500 mg two times per day. Mr. Garcia went to his PCP appointment alone since his wife was not able to get off work. After leaving the office, Mr. Garcia felt confused and not sure how to proceed with his prescription and suggestions for managing his new diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. He did not understand much of the discussion and instructions with the nurse and physician regarding his diagnosis. The interactions were in English, and Mr. Garcia did not feel confident in both comprehension and speaking English. Mr. Garcia has certain beliefs about diabetes and was not sure if those beliefs were consistent with what he heard and understood during his visit with the nurse and physician.