Why Language Skills Matter in Healthcare Careers

Estimate Time to Read: 8 Minutes

Dr. Emily noticed that Mr. Thompson, an elderly patient, was confused about his treatment plan. By taking the time to explain things in simpler terms and truly listening to his concerns, she not only improved his understanding and adherence to the treatment but also built a stronger, more trusting relationship.

In the fast-paced world of healthcare, effective communication is more than just a skill—it's a lifeline. Imagine a patient misunderstanding their medication instructions, leading to serious health complications, or non-English speaking patients struggling to convey their symptoms accurately. These scenarios highlight the critical role of language skills in healthcare careers.

Effective communication directly impacts patient safety, helps overcome language barriers, clarifies medical terminology, and improves nonverbal communication. By mastering these skills, healthcare professionals can ensure better patient outcomes and foster a more inclusive healthcare environment. We will explore the importance of communication in healthcare and how language skills can significantly improve patient care!

Patient’s Safety and Language Barrier

Near misses in healthcare highlight the critical importance of communication and patient safety. For example, a non-English speaking patient visited a clinic with severe abdominal pain. Struggling to describe their symptoms in English, the patient was unable to communicate effectively with the healthcare provider. The provider, instead of seeking a translator or using translation aids, made assumptions about the patient's condition and prescribed medication that did not address the underlying issue. As a result, the patient's symptoms worsened, leading to a more severe condition that required emergency intervention.

Language proficiency is crucial in preventing medical errors by ensuring clear communication between patients and healthcare providers. Misinterpretation of medical terms and instructions can occur on both sides: doctors may misunderstand a patient's description of symptoms, leading to incorrect medication, while patients may struggle to understand the care plan presented by their caregiver, making it difficult to self-administer medication correctly. Studies have found that among “patients who did not speak the local language, nearly 35% experienced confusion about how to use their medication, and almost 16% suffered a bad reaction to the medication due to not understanding the proper usage”.¹ Accurate patient history and medication information are crucial, as any misinterpretation can have serious consequences. Clear instructions and an accurate information exchange are essential, especially in emergency situations where communication must flow seamlessly from the EMT to the ER team to the surgeon. Ensuring patients understand their care plans and follow-up instructions, through access to translated brochures about recommended care programs and medication information, can greatly improve patient outcomes and safety.

Multilingualism in Healthcare

The importance of bilingual skills in healthcare cannot be overstated. Knowing multiple languages can significantly enhance the quality of care provided to patients. Bilingual healthcare workers offer hospitals additional cultural context when caring for patients who share their language, fostering a deeper understanding and connection. Moreover, healthcare workers who speak multiple languages may receive a pay increase, recognizing the value of their skills. There are also occupations in the healthcare field where professionals can work as interpreters or translators, either virtually or in person, ensuring effective communication across language barriers. Interpreters and translators are different. Interpreters work with spoken language, facilitating verbal communication between people who speak different languages. Translators, on the other hand, work with written text, converting documents and written materials from one language to another.

Hospitals and medical settings often have on-hand translation services or video translators to meet the needs of patients. On-hand translation services typically involve professional interpreters who are physically present in the healthcare setting, while video translators use technology to connect patients and providers with professional interpreters via video calls. These services benefit both caregivers and patients. For caregivers, clear communication aids in accurate diagnosis and treatment, improves efficiency by quickly conveying information, and ensures legal compliance with language access requirements. For patients, understanding their diagnosis, treatment options, and medication instructions leads to better adherence and outcomes. Professional interpreters help patients feel understood and respected, building trust in the healthcare system and reducing the risk of medical errors and adverse events.

While it is convenient and not uncommon to use family members, friends, or passersby as interpreters, the appropriateness of this practice diminishes as the stakes of the event become greater.² A person’s sister might function well in assisting in the communication between persons at an informal dinner, but the same sister may be seriously unqualified to function as an interpreter in a health care setting. Even if a patient feels more comfortable with a family member, it's more important to have a clear understanding of what the healthcare professional says and how the patient responds.

Moreover, untrained interpreters (like the sister mentioned above) might hesitate when explaining things about the body or serious injuries. Due to cultural beliefs or an age difference between a younger family member and an elder, it might be considered disrespectful for a younger person to present many types of questions to an elder. This is especially true when dealing with personal or sensitive topics.

Multilingualism also plays a crucial role in cultural competence, allowing healthcare providers to understand and respect cultural differences. Patients feel more comfortable and understood when providers speak their language, leading to actions that bridge cultures and enhance the overall healthcare experience. Sharing a language fosters trust and comfort, making patients more likely to engage with their care plans and follow-up instructions, ultimately improving health outcomes.

Medical Terminology and Clarity

Medical terminology acts as a universal language for healthcare professionals, providing a consistent way to describe anatomy, bodily functions, diseases, diagnoses, treatments, and procedures. This standardized language is crucial in ensuring that all members of a patient's care team, regardless of shifts or days, can understand the patient's condition and treatment plan. Whether reading a file or receiving patient updates during rounds, clear and specific medical terms allow for seamless communication and continuity of care.

Using precise terminology helps in designing effective treatment plans tailored to patient needs. As patients often receive care from multiple providers throughout their lives, consistent use of medical terminology ensures that their care is coherent across different locations and episodes. This consistency is vital for tracking symptoms and medical history accurately, leading to better overall health management.

Medical students and professionals learn standardized terms to communicate effectively in clinical settings. Ongoing education in medical terminology keeps healthcare providers updated with new terms and practices, ensuring they can provide the best possible care. This universal language not only enhances communication among healthcare teams but also improves patient outcomes by facilitating accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Nonverbal Communication in Healthcare

Imagine a scenario where a patient is visibly anxious about an upcoming surgery. The doctor, noticing the patient's distress, offers a warm smile, maintains gentle eye contact, and places a reassuring hand on the patient's shoulder. Without uttering a single word, the doctor conveyed empathy, understanding, and support.

Nonverbal communication plays a vital role in healthcare, often reinforcing verbal messages and providing comfort to patients. Positive gestures, such as nodding and using appropriate hand movements, can enhance the clarity and impact of spoken words. Open body language, like maintaining an open posture and leaning slightly forward, demonstrates attentiveness and empathy, making patients feel heard and valued.

Facial expressions and eye contact are powerful tools in nonverbal communication. A genuine smile can convey warmth and reassurance, while maintaining eye contact shows that the healthcare provider is engaged and focused on the patient. These nonverbal cues help build trust and rapport, essential for effective patient care. By mastering nonverbal communication, healthcare professionals can better support their patients, ensuring they feel understood and cared for even when words fall short. It's important for caregivers to maintain this level of nonverbal engagement with patients even when an interpreter is present. Often, people address the interpreter instead of the patient when asking questions, which can make patients feel disconnected from their provider.

Power of Communication in Healthcare!

Effective communication is the heartbeat of healthcare, transforming patient experiences and outcomes. Imagine the magic of multilingualism, where healthcare professionals break down language barriers, making sure every patient feels understood and cared for. Picture the precision of medical terminology, a universal language that unites diverse care teams, enabling seamless and accurate treatment plans. Add to this the warmth of nonverbal communication—those reassuring smiles, gentle touches, and attentive gestures that speak volumes without saying a word. Together, these elements create a symphony of care, fostering trust, comfort, and safety. By mastering both verbal and nonverbal communication, healthcare providers can bridge gaps, improve patient outcomes, and create a more inclusive and understanding environment. It's amazing what a difference good communication can make!

Sources:

1. Al Shamsi, Hilal, et al. “Implications of Language Barriers for Healthcare: A Systematic Review.” Oman Medical Journal, vol. 35, no. 2, 2020, pp. 1–7, https://doi.org/10.5001/omj.2020.40. National Library of Medicine.

2. Allen, Marin P., et al. “Language, Interpretation, and Translation a Clarification and Reference Checklist in Service of Health Literacy and Cultural Respect.” NAM Perspectives, Feb. 2020, https://doi.org/10.31478/202002c.

3. ‌AMN Healthcare. “The Impact of Nonverbal Communication | AMN Healthcare.” Www.amnhealthcare.com, 22 Oct. 2021, www.amnhealthcare.com/amn-insights/language-services/blog/impact-nonverbal-communication-healthcare/.

4. ‌Mattox, Suzi. “The Importance of Understanding Medical Terminology.” University of San Diego - Professional & Continuing Education, 4 Oct. 2023, pce.sandiego.edu/why-is-medical-terminology-important/.

5. ‌cc_continuum. “Medical Terminology and Its Importance in Healthcare.” Continuum, 9 May 2024, carecloud.com/continuum/understanding-medical-terminology/.

6. Guest. “The Importance of Multilingual Healthcare Workers.” IVANNOVATION, 1 Feb. 2022, ivannovation.com/blog/the-importance-of-multilingual-healthcare-workers/