About the Health Information

Patients frequently transcend boundaries in the quest for specialist treatment in the increasingly globalized society of today, as reflected in our institution’s global commitment. However, for many, the road to improved health is blocked by something unanticipated: linguistic hurdles. In rehabilitation environments, where patient recovery depends on communication, overcoming language barriers in medical care is essential for successful outcomes.

Following a thorough evaluation by Dr. K R Balakrishnan, Dr. Suresh Rao, and the team, an international patient was recommended to our rehabilitation team under the direction of
Dr. A J Rajendran. To meet the patient’s specific needs, our team developed a customized rehabilitation program. However, one significant obstacle soon became clear: the patient’s limited command of the local tongue seriously hampered their understanding of treatment directions and exercises.

Any rehabilitation program depends critically on communication. Without effective dialogue, explaining the treatment plan becomes difficult, which slows patient progress and increases frustration for both the patient and the medical team. Language barriers in healthcare settings, such as rehabilitation, can directly impact patient outcomes.

In one instance, the patient received information from an interpreter. However, misinterpretation of key terms distorted the original meaning and affected the quality of care provided.

To bridge this communication gap, our team adopted a technology-driven approach. By integrating digital tools into our rehabilitation workflow, we aimed to offer multilingual support in hospitals.

• Exercise instructions and medical graphics were translated with Google Lens, helping the patient grasp the information more effectively.
• WhatsApp Translation allowed for real-time explanation of rehabilitation steps, eliminating delay and confusion.

These tools were instrumental in enhancing patient comprehension and played a crucial role in keeping the patient informed throughout every stage of care.

The results were exceptional:

• The patient confidently followed instructions.
• Frustration levels decreased on both ends.
• The rehabilitation team operated more efficiently.
• Overall recovery saw significant improvement.

Overcoming language barriers in medical care not only improved patient experience but also led to better rehabilitation results. It highlighted the need for accessible, patient-centric communication strategies.

This case emphasizes the powerful role of technology in rehabilitation, especially in multilingual healthcare settings. By using tools like Google Lens and WhatsApp, healthcare providers can offer multilingual support in hospitals without the need for expensive solutions. It demonstrates how technology in rehabilitation can enhance inclusivity, bridge language gaps, and deliver superior outcomes.

• Overcoming language barriers in medical care is critical for effective treatment.
• The use of digital solutions in rehab settings strengthens communication and leads to better patient outcomes.
• Multilingual support in hospitals is now more accessible through common digital tools.
• Even everyday apps like WhatsApp and Google Lens can revolutionize patient care.

We owe a special thanks to Shabana, the physiotherapist, who played a vital role in rolling out these tools and keeping the rehabilitation process centered on the patients while ensuring inclusivity.She has made a lasting contribution through her focus on patient-centered care.

The successful rehabilitation of our international patient shows that overcoming the language barrier in healthcare is achievable with the right tools and mindset. Embracing multilingual support in hospitals and integrating technology in rehabilitation ensures we deliver compassionate, high-quality care to every patient, regardless of language.

Experience compassionate, patient-focused care with our expert team.
Consult the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine today.

Call us at: 044 45242407