CASE STUDY
Assisting with Language Support and Navigating the Local Healthcare System in China
OVERVIEW
Jane was concerned about her medical condition but was reluctant to go to a local hospital due to language challenges. She contacted International SOS for advice. The Beijing Assistance Centre provided medical referral, language support, and assistance to help her navigate the local hospital.
PROBLE
Jane felt ill recently, but she was a bit hesitant to see a doctor as the family doctor she usually visited had left China during the pandemic. However, her condition worsened over the week, and she really began to worry. She called International SOS for advice.
SOLUTION
A coordinating doctor from the Assistance Centre spoke to Jane on the phone and provided initial advice for her condition but recommended to visit a local specialist. A referral to a local 3A hospital with this specialty was provided to Jane.
While Jane was seeing the specialist at the local hospital, a Chinese-English-speaking nurse from International SOS immediately connected to the call to facilitate communication and translate instructions from the treating doctor for the patient. The treating doctor recommended another follow-up in 6 months.
Based on the specialist’s instructions, the nurse further provided support with medication instructions and advice.
IMPACT
Seeing a doctor in a foreign country can be daunting especially if you do not understand the local language. With our medically-led advice, International SOS provided Jane with timely assistance, supported with a reliable medical referral and language assistance to help smooth the visit for Jane.
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