Investigating Language Barriers in Public Healthcare Services: A Case Study of International Students in Budapest, Hungary

Language barriers in healthcare impact the cost and quality of services, affecting international students in Budapest, Hungary. The study explores challenges faced by international students in understanding medical advice within the public healthcare system and identify strategies to overcome these challenges. A qualitative approach involving eighteen international students from various universities in Budapest was used for data analysis. While most participants did not face urgent health issues, those with more severe conditions encountered significant language barriers, signage issues, and access delays. The primary challenge identified was the language barrier, which complicated communication with medical staff. Participants utilized technology like Google Translate, interpreters, and non-verbal communication to overcome language barriers. The study emphasizes the need for policies to enhance communication between healthcare providers and international students for equitable access to quality healthcare services.