Language barriers stopping holidaymakers getting medical help abroad
Language barriers can make it difficult to get medical help on holiday (Image: Getty Images)
Only a third of travelers are confident they can disclose a medical problem to a doctor while abroad. A study of 2,000 adults found that one of the biggest barriers to getting sick on holiday was language.
Only 28% are confident they can understand the medical advice they are given, and 13% have delayed seeking help for a medical problem while abroad due to a lack of information about how to get help in a different country.
Two-thirds cannot ask for a new prescription if they desperately need a replacement and don’t know how to explain that they had an allergic reaction or were bitten or stung.
While the majority of holidaymakers would happily order a drink and ask where the toilet is, only 5% learn basic medical phrases before setting off.
Only 5% learn basic medical terms before going on holiday (Image: Getty Images)
The research was commissioned by Staysure to launch its free 24/7 Travel Doctor service. This will allow travelers to speak to an English-speaking doctor or dentist via video call in many locations around the world, arrange a prescription, or make an in-person appointment at a clinic or hotel when they need medical assistance abroad.
Spokesperson Simon McCulloch said: “In true British style, I’m not surprised to see that many of us can order beer in another language while on holiday.
“But while we hope we won’t have to deal with a health issue while we’re away, research shows a third of people have had to seek medical advice and faced a language barrier.
“While it’s nice to be able to order a drink or request the bill in other languages, it’s arguably more important for travelers to be confident they can get the right medical help quickly if they are sick or injured.
“We can’t be prepared for every eventuality, but knowing a few keywords can be helpful, especially if you need quick care, have a medical condition, or are taking medications.
“However, the thought of speaking to a pharmacist or doctor abroad can be an anxious and daunting experience, especially when there is a language barrier. In fact, we found that 50% of those who use this service eliminate this stress by opting for a video call with an English-speaking doctor.”
Can you tell the difference between ordering coffee and calling for medical help? Take the test now to find out.
The research found that when it comes to communicating abroad, 59% of respondents assume they can speak English when traveling to a non-English speaking country. 37% rely solely on translation tools and 12% want AI to understand.
Others admit they will turn to alternative means of communication, including using hand signs or gestures (70%), speaking English slowly (10%) or asking someone else to translate (9%). 39% even admit to using a foreign accent to communicate better.
But these tactics don’t always work; 39% face an embarrassing or difficult situation due to language confusion.
Simon McCulloch of Staysure added: “When we travel we never dream of needing medical attention, but there are many occasions when we do so.
“That’s why we launched a free 24/7 service that gives travelers an extra layer of confidence.
“Our research also found that 79% of respondents said they would be willing to use this service.”
