Le Rôle de la Langue Dans L’accès Aux Soins Médicaux : Le Cas des Francophones au Ghana

Abstract

Located in West Africa, Ghana is an English-speaking country surrounded by French-speaking countries. By this geographical position, Ghana is naturally open to Francophone immigrants, which is a reality today. During their stay, the immigrants might need medical care. During access to health care by these Francophone immigrants, communication difficulties arise because of language barriers. This research aims to study the effects of language barriers on the medical care received by Francophone patients in Ghanaian health centres, to identify the means of communication used between patients and medical personnel and to analyse the verbs and expressions used by the Francophone patients when telling their experiences. During our research, we interviewed a total of twenty-five Francophones who had accessed Ghanaian healthcare centres. Those who had communication difficulties due to language barriers reported negative effects on the effectiveness and quality of the healthcare they received. They stated negative effects such as: longer time spent for consultation, additional expenses and the risk of making serious mistakes that could cost their lives. It is hoped that the recommendations made at the end will be useful in improving care for Francophone patients in Ghanaian health centres.