Language accessibility in healthcare improves outcomes and equity. It helps providers build trust, deliver better treatment, and reduce disparities for non-native English-speaking patients.
In this post, we’re sharing five powerful ways to improve language accessibility in healthcare settings — from tech tools to cultural understanding. These practices not only help you communicate more effectively but also foster truly inclusive, compassionate care.
Quote of the Week: “If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart.” — Nelson Mandela
PRT Training Now Available in Spanish
We’re proud to now offer our Pain Reprocessing Therapy Certification Training in Spanish — a major step in expanding language accessibility in healthcare. This allows Spanish-speaking healthcare professionals to access high-quality training in their preferred language, helping them support patients more effectively.
If you know a Spanish-speaking provider, please spread the word! For every referral who signs up, you’ll receive $50 off your next training. Just reply to this newsletter to request your code.
Supporting Language Accessibility in Healthcare Settings
Here are five strategies to improve language accessibility in healthcare and better serve patients from diverse backgrounds:
- Use simple language and visuals: Simplify your message and use visuals whenever possible. See NIH’s clear communication resources.
- Leverage translation tools: Tools like Google Translate or DeepL can be helpful in clinical moments. Read about translation tools improving outcomes.
- Understand cultural context: Learn about your patients’ cultural backgrounds. Read CDC’s cultural competence guidance.
- Work with bilingual colleagues: Partner with multilingual staff for clearer communication. NIH tips on bilingual collaboration.
- Offer printed or visual handouts: Supplement spoken language with accessible formats to reinforce comprehension.
Multilingual Resources for Providers
Even if your internal resource library isn’t multilingual yet, you can still support patients using trusted external sources:
- WHO’s multilingual hub: Explore resources here.
- Translation tools + review: Use tools like DeepL, but always review the output for accuracy. ATA advice here.
- Team translation: Collaborate with fluent staff to adapt and localize information.
- Specialty examples: Send Hebrew-speaking patients to The Pain Plan. For dizziness, see translated info from CDD.org.
Recommended Reading: The Body Keeps the Score
This bestseller by Bessel van der Kolk, MD, explores the deep connection between trauma and physical symptoms. It’s been translated into 43 languages, making it a model of language accessibility in healthcare.
If you haven’t read it yet, this is your sign! It’s a valuable tool for deepening your understanding of trauma-informed, brain-based care.