Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to assess whether language affects patient time to surgery following hip fractures. METHODS: Patients >55 years who underwent operative hip fracture repair between 2014 and 2021 were reviewed for demographics, language, hospital quality measures, and outcomes. Patients were split into English (E) or non-English (NE) cohorts based on their primary language. RESULTS: A total of 1880 patients (1477 E, 403 NE) were included. The E cohort was younger, had lower body mass index, and lower American Society of Anesthesiology Score (P < .01). The E cohort had more White patients (P < .01), whereas the NE cohort had more Hispanic, Asian, and patients with unknown backgrounds (P < .01 for all). At baseline, the E cohort patients were more likely to be community ambulators (P < .01). There were no differences in time to surgery or length of stay (P > .05). CONCLUSION: Despite poorer baseline medical conditions, NE speaking patients received similar care to English speakers highlighting the importance of an effective standardized protocol with readily available translation services. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, Retrospective cohort study.