Features of interpretation and translation in medical institutions in United Kingdom

Medical translations – what is important?

Depending on the subject area and target group, the translator has different requirements.

For many years, I have been entrusted with the medical translation services. In this delicate area, in which the slightest inaccuracy must be excluded, the translator is faced with many special requirements.

In addition to extensive medical and technical knowledge, the interpreter must be familiar with all relevant rules, abbreviations and regulations. Medical translation is one of the most difficult areas to translate. Logically, each translation must be accurate and of high quality. Mistakes in medicine can never be corrected. Without translation of medical reports and conclusions, patients do not receive treatment. The slightest inaccuracy must be excluded. Therefore, the highest requirements are placed on the translator.

What are the dangers of non-professional interpreters in hospitals

Those who need treatment abroad and do not have sufficient language skills often feel in danger. Failure to tell the doctor about the problems and, even worse, failure to understand his questions and diagnoses can quickly lead to panic. There are many patients in United Kingdom who do not understand the attendants in clinics and hospitals. Interpreters can help improve communication between patients, healthcare professionals, and relatives.

Treatment by a doctor or hospital is not easy without proper language skills. Instead of a qualified translator, due to cost or convenience, many people trust friends or family members who are not linguistic savvy or who work.

Professional skills of an interpreter

Non-professional translators have neither the necessary training in interpreting nor the corresponding specialized vocabulary in their lexicon. Professional interpreters work transparently and impartially, and are well aware of cultural differences, so they can address both the clinic staff and the patient. Thanks to their experience in the field of medicine, they also know the specific vocabulary in both languages, as well as simple expressions for them, and thus can act as an intermediary between the doctor and the patient. Because they are less emotionally involved than relatives, best certified interpreters can focus on treatment-related information.

Good interpreters do not interfere in conversations unless asked and remain silent so as not to interfere with the process of treatment with a doctor or therapist.

Liability is also important because the translator has professional liability insurance. The loose interpretation of medical terms by non-professionals can have serious health and financial implications.

Some clinics have their own court room Interpretation and police and cps interpretation services. Multilingual hospital staff receive appropriate training and education. However, the staff cannot replace a professional translator who has worked for many years in their field.

Areas of work of medical translators:

• Clinical studies and research results
• Documents for medical or pharmaceutical appointments
• Conclusions, diagnoses, psychological reports and medical reports e.g. from abroad
• Medication instructions and authorizations
• Health information brochures, such as oral hygiene or infectious diseases
• Articles in newspapers or magazines
• Other.

The main goal of an interpreter and translator is to minimize the risks of non-professional interpreters and ensure successful communication between the treatment staff and the patient.