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Cultural and Linguistic Barriers in Healthcare: A Study of Communication Challenges between Ghanaian Health Workers and Francophone Patients

Article scientifique 2025 Anglais

Résumé

As Ghana strengthens its ties with Francophone Africa and the broader international community, French language proficiency among healthcare professionals has become increasingly vital. The country hosts a growing number of migrants from Francophone nations, driven by educational, professional, economic, and socio-political factors. Ghana’s strategic location in West Africa further encourages cross-border migration, with many migrants seeking access to essential services, particularly healthcare. Indicated by literature, Ghanaian health professionals, especially at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, are witnessing a steady rise in patients from neighboring Francophone countries. Effective communication between healthcare professionals and Francophone patients is essential for delivering quality healthcare services. The study examines the communication challenges between health workers and francophone patients in Ghana and evaluates the role of cultural differences in the health worker-patient relationship. This study adopts a mixed-method approach. A questionnaire survey was conducted among 106 healthcare professionals and students from Kumasi Nursing and Midwifery Training College and Valley View University, Techiman campus. Additionally, eight responses were collected from Francophone patients residing in the Kumasi Metropolis. The findings highlight the need for continuous, context-based capacity building in French language skills tailored specifically for healthcare professionals. Such training could improve communication and, consequently, patient outcomes. The study advocates for the enhancement of French language education in healthcare institutions through relevant pedagogical approaches, thereby promoting regional healthcare collaboration. Keywords: French Language Education, Healthcare Institutions, Ghana, Healthcare Professionals, Francophone Patients.

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Kodua, M., Ampong, B., Tettey, L., Thompson, J. (2025). Cultural and Linguistic Barriers in Healthcare: A Study of Communication Challenges between Ghanaian Health Workers and Francophone Patients. https://doi.org/10.38159/ehass.20256720

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Auteur(s)

Mavis Antiri Kodua Bernard Ampong Lebene Adzo Tettey Joann Thompson

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