Bridging the Gap in the Medical Field

My ultimate career goal would be in the field of medicine. When I think about issues that surround the medical field, they all relate to misunderstanding. What the physician explains to a patient does not seem all that crystal. Many people who speak to a physician hope to be enlightened. After a conversation with their doctor, however, these patients are more lost than before.

A reoccurring language issue that affects the medical field is the use of technical jargon. Many times physicians do not clarify enough when speaking to their patients. They overlook the fact that the majority of their patients have lower health literacy and do not understand the medical terminology that doctors are accustomed to. Problems occur when doctors explain the conditions of their patients’ health issues and even medical instructions.

An additional issue that appeared often in my research deals with patients with English proficiency. With a rapidly increasing number of immigrants in the U.S., doctors find it more difficult to communicate effectively with their patients.

Doctors may use trained medical translators to aid in the communication process with foreigners. Even bilingual staff members can be off assistance. When these translators are not available, doctors must communicate by themselves. They must use a slower rate of speech, simple diction, and visual aids.

Physicians must communicate clearly by catering to their patients. Doctors must clarify exactly what the health issues are and clearly state how the patients can combat it. If this issue is not addressed, patients are left confused, misguided, and untrustworthy. This confusion can lead to not having full confidence in their doctor or not knowing how to deal with their health problems. This in turn may lead to a diminishing of their health or the possibility of death.