One of the causes of health literacy difficulties is a language barrier between doctor and the person using health services. As migration increases in Ireland, the number of different languages that people in Ireland speak also increases. This can cause communication problems and will increase the potential that people will not fully understand the information they are given about their healthcare.

With a large migrant population in Ireland, these communities could see their health suffer unless action is taken to give them with good communication materials.

Research conducted in the United States by the Partnership for Clear Health Communication shows the literacy issues coming from increased migration. The research found that there is a high percentage of minorities and immigrants who have literacy problems:

• 50% of Hispanics
• 40% of Blacks
• 33% of Asians.

It is important to start change in this area. This change must come from both healthcare professionals and the people who use the health services. In order to start sustainable, long term change it is very important that both people who provide health services and patients are educated on this issue.