As part of its efforts to expand health-related information, Google is adding new tools to its search engine to make it easier to navigate the healthcare system, particularly in the United States (US).
Google announced a new feature in search that allows doctors to list which languages they can speak in their office.
People who speak languages other than English often find it difficult to navigate the health care system in the United States and are at risk for poor medical outcomes because they have more difficulty communicating with providers.
They get better care when they have access to a trained interpreter or are seen by a provider who speaks their local language.
Google is also drawing attention to other features it added recently to address challenges patients face with the healthcare system, including the ability to see what insurance networks the providers listed in a search accept.
On mobile devices people can now also filter by providers that accept Medicare.
The update joins a series of other features that Google has made available to healthcare providers, including the ability to add links to sites where patients can make appointments, to list health conditions the office treats, and to log whether the site is wheelchair accessible.
Additionally, Google has added a directory option that allows clinics to list the languages the staff speak in their offices. With this launch there is support for 12 languages, including Spanish and ASL (sign language).
Finally, Google is now allowing healthcare providers to update their Google Business Profiles. They can do this by claiming their listing, which will help them ensure important information about their hours and services is accurate.
