Sanya's medical volunteers help intl talent overcome barriers

A foreign researcher ran into a seemingly impenetrable language barrier recently when she went to Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City (YZBSTC) Hospital for a pre-employment health check.

The expat, based in the YZBSTC, faced a quandary as she needed to undergo tests at a local hospital, but couldn't speak Chinese.

In her predicament, she turned to the International Talent Medical Volunteer Service Team for help. Responding promptly, Li Xiaoyao, a master's degree student at Hainan University and a volunteer, accompanied her throughout the visit, ensuring smooth communications with the doctors.

Li tackled the challenge of translating complex medical jargon by using simple, clear explanations, making the health check both convenient and efficient. The foreign researcher was full of praise for the assistance she received.

In all, the YZBSTC has attracted nearly 800 international professionals. To resolve the medical service challenges they face, it has identified key issues like inadequate foreign medical services, language barriers and unfamiliarity with procedures.

By leveraging local university talent, the YZBSTC has recruited young bilingual volunteers to form an innovative service team that offers comprehensive support for expats during medical visits.

Moreover, to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of these services, it has compiled a bilingual Chinese-English medical glossary, featuring over 100 commonly used phrases. Standardized service guide videos have also been created.

These resources are helping to ensure that medical terms and procedures are easy to understand and are readily available.

Additionally, the YZBSTC has strengthened its partnership with Sanya Yazhou Bay Science and Technology City Hospital to establish a service model that combines bilingual volunteer guidance with professional medical support.

The comprehensive approach covers everything from pre-hospital consultations and in-hospital navigation to communications during visits and procedure management — clearing the way for international professionals who are seeking medical care.