17 Apr The power of plain language in medical translation

Accuracy is essential in the world of professional medical translation, but clarity is just as important. An accurate translation is meaningless if the target audience cannot understand it. This is where plain language in healthcare translation becomes a powerful tool, ensuring that medical information is accessible, understandable and useful for everyone.

Why is plain language essential in medical translation?

When thinking about translating medical content, the goal is not just to transfer words from one language to another. Instead, the aim is to ensure that complex medical information is understandable, especially when dealing with patients, caregivers, and the public. Why is that?

In healthcare, where patients are often going through stressful or emotional situations, clarity is crucial. People need to understand their diagnosis, treatment options and instructions so that they can take action confidently.

That is where plain language plays a role.

What is plain language in medical translation?

Plain language is not just about simplifying a text. It is about communicating complex ideas in an understandable way, without oversimplifying them or losing key details. In medical translation and in medical translation agencies, the aim is to make sure the audience can easily grasp the content without feeling overwhelmed by technical jargon.

Who benefits from plain language in healthcare communication?

1. Patients and families: Plain language allows them to better understand their health condition, options and the necessary steps for care. It eliminates confusion and empowers them to take control of their health.
2. Healthcare professionals: Clear communication makes it easier for doctors, nurses and medical teams to interact with patients and other healthcare providers. It also ensures that the medical information shared is correctly understood.
3. Industry bodies and administrators: Plain language ensures essential information reaches all target audiences efficiently, without barriers or misunderstandings.

Medical translator vs. typical phrases a doctor says

How to use plain language in medical translation?

Translating medical content into plain language requires strategic adjustments to ensure the information is clear but still precise. Here are some practical tips for a medical translator: 

1. Use simple, familiar words

Opt for everyday language that patients and non-specialists can easily understand. To identify whether a word is appropriate, you should consider:

• • Would it be used in everyday conversation?
  • Is it less than four syllables?
  • Is there a simpler alternative?
  • Would a non-medical reader be able to understand it without help?

2. Explain complex concepts

Break down medical terms, procedures and treatments into simpler explanations, providing context to make them easier to understand. Provide clear and concise definitions.

3. Use a conversational tone

Address the reader in a relatable and empathetic way, using pronouns such as “you” rather than impersonal terms such as the patient. This enhances the connection with the audience and makes the information more accessible.

4. Structure content with clear headings

Organise information into sections with descriptive and specific headings.

In health content, headings in the form of questions work very well, as they reflect the doubts readers may have.

5. Include visual aids

The use of images, diagrams or infographics facilitates comprehension, especially when dealing with complex information.

It is important that the visual elements are culturally appropriate for the audience.

6. Test with the target audience

Test with representatives of the target audience to ensure that the message is clear and understandable.

7. Organise information by prioritising key points

Place the most important information at the beginning and avoid unnecessary details that may make it difficult to read.

8. Write short sentences and short paragraphs.

To improve readability:

• • keep sentences to a maximum of two lines.
  • Limit paragraphs to 4-5 lines.
  • Align texts to the left to make them easier to read.

9. Use bulleted lists

Instead of writing lists within a paragraph, use bullets to present symptoms, treatments and recommendations in a clear and visually scannable way.

10. Be specific

Ensure that information includes key details, such as dates, contacts and examples, to avoid confusion or ambiguity.

11. Maintain consistency in medical terminology

If you choose a specific term for a concept (e.g. treatment rather than therapy), use it consistently throughout the content to avoid misunderstandings.

12. Write in the active voice

Try to write sentences in the active voice, as they are more direct, clear and concise. For example, “Your treatment will be explained by the doctor” becomes “The doctor will explain your treatment”.

The benefits of plain language in medical translation

Using plain language principles in medical translation does not just improve communication. It leads to better healthcare outcomes. Here’s how:

• • Clarity and conciseness: Simplifying medical language makes complex concepts easier to understand, benefiting both healthcare professionals and the general public.
  • Greater comprehension: Reducing jargon and using familiar terms helps people with varying levels of health literacy understand medical concepts clearly.
  • Increased accessibility: Clear organisation, helpful headings and visual aids make it easier for readers to find the most relevant information quickly.
  • A patient-centred approach: Plain language allows patients to make informed decisions, improving their trust in healthcare providers and enhancing treatment adherence.

Translating scanned handwritten doctors’ documents

Clarity that connects

Medical terminology can easily lead to confusion and errors. That is why clear language is crucial for effective healthcare communication. Medical translators and editors play a vital role in simplifying complex concepts into accessible information.

At the end of the day, a translation is not complete until the message is truly understood.