The Strategy of Using Comprehensive English to Overcome Language Barrier in Medical Communication

Abstract

Abstract: English as an international language is very critical for maintaining good communication in medical healthcare services, especially in global healthcare nowadays. However, using comprehensive English to overcome the language barrier needs a strategy. This paper aims to describe the strategy of using comprehensive English to overcome the language barrier in medical communication. This is a narrative literature review. Literature was taken from Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar, which were published within 10 years (2013-2023). The language barrier in medical communication is not only affected by the type of language (English or any other language) but also includes the limited health literacy of the patient. Therefore, the medical staff should try to communicate in several ways, i.e. using plain language for communication, trying to deliver the information in simple and brief ways. Limited English proficiency of the patients might become another barrier in delivering medical terms. Doctors should try to deliver the information as simply as possible by using comprehensive English. In conclusion, limited English proficiency and health literacy are barriers to medical communication with global patients. The strategies are using simple, brief, plain, and comprehensive English in delivering medical terms and information.