It is said that “a problem shared is a problem halved”. One in need of healthcare would need to speak and
communicate with a healthcare worker in order to be properly diagnosed and treated. The healthcare worker would
also need to effectively communicate prescriptions and medical advice for recovery to his patient. What happens when
there is a breach in communication as a result of language barriers? Language and communication barriers in
healthcare delivery can have fatal consequences and thus, cannot be in anyone’s interest. This article outlines to what
degree, language and communication can affect healthcare delivery as observed in selected Health Centres in Obot
Akara Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It also exposes other barriers predominant in rural areas
and their resultant effects on healthcare delivery. Following the identification of the problems, it proffers strategies to
overcome the barriers.