Determination of perceived language barriers according to Syrian refugees visiting two hospitals in Ankara
Abstract
Objective: The aim of this study is to determine perceived language barriers in accessing healthcare services according to Syrian refugees and the methods they used to cope with this problem.
Methods: The study was a descriptive study. A survey was carried out among Syrian adults visiting two hospitals in Ankara.
Results: Of the 221 participants, 11.1% stated that they speak Turkish, 48.5% of them used hospital interpreters while 20.6%, 17.6% and 13.2% of them did not get any help, used ad hoc interpreters and used a private interpreter respectively. Employment status and having social relationships with locals had statistically significant relationships with learning the Turkish language. The language barrier was more common, among participants, who were married, unemployed, illiterate, had no Turkish-speaking relatives or had diseases. Gender, economic status, having Turkish-speaking relatives and having diseases were variables showing association with the method they used to cope with the language barrier.
Conclusion: More disadvantaged refugees in terms of socio-economic factors should be prioritized in policies and projects aiming to reduce language barrier in accessing health services. Additionally, supporting refugees regarding employment and social relationships with locals would contribute to eliminate language barrier in accessing healthcare services.
Keywords
Language barrier, Healthcare services, Syrian refugees, migration, Turkey
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