Speak Medical Spanish to Your Patients and Clients

Spanish essentials for healthcare; program teaches correct pronunciation, pain management and medication, among others

Patients experiencing pain are often distracted from second language knowledge and need assistance in their native language. Half of computer-generated Spanish prescription labels are either inaccurate or incomplete, according to a study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics. These lead to errors made by patients in following directions for use. Even the order of a Spanish speaker’s name can cause errors in labeling and filing. These problems can be daunting when a medical professional considers that fluency is the only solution.

Stephanie Langston of Hands on Spanish, Inc. (and a professor of Spanish at Georgia State University Perimeter College) has 16 years of experience teaching Spanish to medical professionals both in person and online. Her longer courses are approved for ACPE and ANCC credit. With a focus on correct pronunciation and targeting exactly what is needed in the medical professions, her students are able to communicate for a specific purpose that serves their patients without investing years of time to become fluent.

This course teaches pronunciation basics in order to improve confidence and enable patient comprehension. You will learn to assess pain in patients and to understand common patient responses. Also taught are Spanish names for RX and OTC medications and common directions for use. You will learn to greet Spanish-speaking patients and obtain necessary information from them, such as personal data, allergies and current medications. This program contains expressions that are already put together for your use, as well as the components necessary for you to provide directions of your own. As a result, you will be equipped to better serve your Hispanic patients. This course meets the needs of both the Spanish novice and the native speaker desiring practical medical terminology.