Crossing Borders: Language and Cultural Needs in Quality Health Care

Area of Science:

• Healthcare
• Cross-cultural communication
• Medical education

Background:

• Taiwan's increasing cultural diversity due to foreign residents and medical tourism.
• Identified deficiencies in healthcare professionals' English proficiency and cultural competence.
• Need to explore linguistic and cultural requirements for quality healthcare delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the linguistic and cultural needs of foreign patients and healthcare professionals in Taiwan.
• To understand the challenges in providing cross-cultural healthcare.
• To identify areas for improvement in healthcare services for a diverse population.

Main Methods:

• Phenomenological approach utilizing semi-structured interviews.
• Participant recruitment from hospitals in Northern Taiwan.
• Data analysis through descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Eight healthcare professionals and ten foreign patients participated.
• Two interconnected themes emerged: linguistic and cultural needs in cross-cultural care.
• Professionals require support for communication, cultural understanding, and holistic care.
• Patients need clear English communication and recognition of their cultural beliefs.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare professionals need enhanced English and cultural knowledge.
• Patients require support for communication and emotional well-being.
• Hospitals and educational institutions should implement targeted training programs.