Holly Jacobson

Dr. Holly Jacobson leads initiatives in the field of linguistics with a keen focus on the intersection of language and health. As an Associate Professor at the University of New Mexico, she dedicates her research to understanding and addressing the linguistic challenges faced by minority communities in healthcare settings. Her work is pivotal in exploring how language variables influence healthcare access and outcomes, particularly among populations experiencing health disparities. Dr. Jacobson's research interests are deeply rooted in health discourse and intercultural communication within healthcare environments. She employs a variety of methodologies, including interactional sociolinguistics, conversation analysis, and translation and interpreting theory, to dissect and understand the complexities of health literacy. Her interdisciplinary approach allows her to uncover the nuanced ways in which language can either facilitate or hinder effective healthcare delivery. Throughout her career, Dr. Jacobson has been instrumental in securing over $2.5 million in external research funding. This achievement not only underscores her expertise but also her unwavering commitment to mitigating language-related barriers in healthcare. Her work has significantly contributed to the development of strategies aimed at improving communication between healthcare providers and patients from diverse linguistic backgrounds. In addition to her research, Dr. Jacobson is actively involved in teaching and mentoring students at the University of New Mexico. She is passionate about fostering a new generation of scholars who are equipped to tackle the linguistic challenges in healthcare. Her courses often integrate her research findings, providing students with a practical understanding of the real-world implications of language in health settings. Dr. Jacobson's contributions extend beyond academia, as she frequently collaborates with healthcare professionals and policymakers to implement her research findings in practical settings. Her work has been recognized for its impact on improving health literacy and promoting equitable healthcare access for all communities, regardless of their linguistic background. Through her dedication and innovative research, Dr. Holly Jacobson continues to make significant strides in the field of linguistics, with a particular emphasis on improving healthcare communication and outcomes for minority communities. Her efforts are paving the way for more inclusive and effective healthcare systems that recognize and address the critical role of language.