Healthcare Localization

Healthcare Localization is a very broad term. Under Healthcare Localization we would look at patients, doctors, hospitals and medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, medical equipment manufacturers and all other healthcare personnel. So when we look at localization in healthcare we refer to a wide range of not only “industries” but also have to take into consideration a diverse population that is part of that sector. Nearly 78 million people in U.S. are unable to understand critical medical information and instructions due to their inability to understand English. This leads to higher hospitalization and medical complications in patients who are unable to accurately comprehend English.

In the process of healthcare localization it will involves coordination between the LSP and pharmaceutical companies or hospitals or doctors or medical institutions, etc. It could sometimes mean coordination between multiple stakeholders. Advertising in healthcare is a large part of the industry, which is why the Localization process will also go hand-in-hand and include either coordination with the advertising agency or include Multimedia Localization as well, which would be provided by the LSP. When it comes to Healthcare Localization there are a number of factors to be considered.

  • Accuracy of Information and Data
  • Cultural and Linguistic accuracy
  • Deadlines
  • Local Legal Rules and Regulation
  • Certification of LSP

Accuracy of Information and Data

When it comes to Localization in Healthcare one of the most important factors would be accuracy of data and accuracy of information. The word data could refer to various types of documented information; localization of medical research and tests, or even localization or annual reports. If the accuracy of data is not maintained there could be ripple effects that could not only influence the medical industry but also could have major financial implications. Accuracy of medical instruction in manuals, or on leaflets, or on signage in hospitals and medical institutions are also important. In Healthcare Localization it’s all about accuracy, accuracy and accuracy!!

Cultural and Linguistic accuracy

As in any form of Localization the target market culture and linguistics need to be kept in mind. When it comes to advertising for example; In the U.S. you would portray a surgeon in blue scrubs… whoever in India or for that matter China you would need to portray that surgeon in green scrubs to maintain accuracy and for it to be culturally relevant.

Deadlines

Keeping to a deadline is always important, and with Healthcare Localization it’s even more so. For example the turnaround time medical transcription is mostly a short one. When it comes to healthcare everything moves and should move at a faster rate as it deals with not just reports and data…but with patients and real time requirements as well.

Local Legal Rules and Regulation

The legal rules and regulations that govern healthcare differs from country to country, and there are always statutory warning and disclosures that need to be in place. The LSP will need to keep all these in minds while processing the localization of the project.

Certification

Always make sure that the LSP has the necessary certification and that they use certified translators and QA staff. Being accurate and detailed is important, especially since it has to do with health and thus any inaccuracies could spell disaster.