MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY IN MULTILINGUAL HEALTHCARE SETTINGS: CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES FOR ACCURATE COMMUNICATION

In today’s globalized world, multilingualism is increasingly prevalent in healthcare settings, creating both opportunities and challenges for effective communication. Medical terminology, which is inherently complex and specialized, poses significant challenges when translated across different languages and cultural contexts. Misunderstandings in medical communication can lead to diagnostic errors, patient dissatisfaction, and even legal repercussions. This article explores the critical role of medical terminology in multilingual healthcare environments, analyzing the key challenges faced by medical professionals and patients alike. Furthermore, it examines effective strategies for enhancing communication accuracy, including the use of standardized medical glossaries, interpreter services, and cross-cultural training. Emphasis is placed on the importance of culturally sensitive communication and the integration of technology to facilitate real-time, error-free translation. This research underscores the necessity for strategic improvements to bridge linguistic gaps and ensure patient safety and quality of care.