Healthcare communication needs to be accurate and easy to understand. When materials are translated, the stakes go up. A mistake in a consent form or a misinterpreted instruction can have real consequences for patients and providers alike.
Translation in healthcare involves more than converting text from one language to another. It requires a thoughtful approach, an understanding of regulations, and a focus on patient safety.
Here are a few ways to keep your healthcare translations compliant and effective.
Choose translators with healthcare experience
Not every translator is prepared to handle medical content. Healthcare materials often include terms that require specific knowledge. When a linguist is familiar with clinical settings, they’re better prepared to choose the right wording and maintain the intent of the original message.
Follow current legal requirements
Federal regulations, such as Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, outline when and how translations should be provided. Many states have additional rules based on the communities being served. Keeping up with these requirements helps you stay ahead and avoid delays when content needs to go out.
Plan for a review process
Translations are stronger when they go through multiple steps. This might involve a second linguist reviewing the work, a project manager checking formatting, or a back translation for extra assurance. Building in time for review helps catch issues before materials are shared with patients.
Keep language approachable
Even when the medical terms are correct, the overall message can still be hard to follow. The goal is to help the patient understand what to do next. That means writing in a way that matches the audience’s reading level. A good language partner will flag content that might be too complex or confusing.
Make privacy part of the process
Every file that contains patient information should be handled securely. Language partners should use encrypted systems, follow HIPAA guidelines, and provide regular training for their teams. Security isn’t something that happens in the background—it should be part of the workflow from start to finish.
Work with a partner who understands your environment
Every healthcare organization is different. The right language services provider will take the time to understand how your team works, what types of content you produce, and what support you need over time. That kind of alignment makes it easier to keep translation consistent across teams and departments.
How Propio Supports Healthcare Translations
Propio works with healthcare organizations to deliver compliant, patient-friendly translations in more than 200 languages. Our teams are familiar with healthcare content and regulatory requirements. We follow a structured process built for quality and accountability, helping you stay focused on the people you serve.
