Communication barriers are one of the many reasons why people with intellectual disability (ID) are prevented from accessing appropriate healthcare services. As a result the health of this population is poorer than the general population in many countries around the world. Understanding the nature of the limitations faced by people with ID in language learning and communication forms the basis of creatively developing strategies to overcome them. Building bridges of understanding between the clinician and the patient with ID increases the chances of accurate diagnoses of health conditions, effective treatment, and an overall improved quality of life for the patient.