Rural Easy Japanese as a Method of Mitigating Language Barriers Among Foreigners Seeking Medical Care in Rural Japan

Abstract

Mitigating difficulties in communication is vital in multicultural societies. Particularly, foreigners face greater communication difficulties because of language barriers, posing a challenge to both themselves and indigenous people. In Japan, the increase in the number of foreigners has driven the use of Easy Japanese, a free online program of Japanese language lessons. Easy Japanese can facilitate communication between medical professionals and foreigners. Easy Japanese is mainly characterized by short sentences, an upfront conclusion, and avoiding polite Japanese words when collaborating with translators. This communication method should prevail not only in urban areas but also in rural areas, and can help individuals in rural contexts prepare for an increase in the number of foreigners.

Keywords: covid-19; easy japanese; foreigner; japan; language barriers; medical education; rural; social isolation.

Figure 1. Basic rules of Easy Japanese in medical fields