Misunderstandings in medical communication pose significant risks for patients. Studies show that 60–80% of all healthcare professionals in hospitals are confronted with communication problems with foreign-language patients several times a week. Against this backdrop, digilinguo‘s first MeetUp on January 27 focused on the question of how communication in healthcare can be made secure and responsible.
The MeetUp offered practical insights into the everyday work of healthcare professionals in dealing with language barriers. The focus was on the tension between new technological possibilities and proven professional standards.
In her presentation, Anne Catherine Gieshoff highlighted the opportunities and limitations of artificial intelligence. Machine translation can support healthcare professionals in many situations, but it reaches its limits, especially in complex, sensitive, or emotionally charged conversations. In such cases, professional interpreting remains an indispensable part of safe and patient-centered care.
The subsequent discussion with representatives from research and practice highlighted key challenges:
- Dialects and language variants continue to pose a major hurdle for machine translation.
- In medically complex or emotionally charged conversations, the use of a qualified interpreter is essential.
- The use of digital translation tools requires clear strategies and best practice examples so that healthcare professionals can make informed decisions about when an app is suitable and when professional interpreting is required.
The MeetUp thus underscored the importance of a reflective and responsible approach to AI-supported translation in healthcare. Only in combination with professional interpreting and clear recommendations for action can technology make a lasting contribution to improving communication.
Upcoming event
Interactive education day by digilinguo
The interactive education day by digilinguo is aimed at (prospective) interpreting professionals who are interested in AI-based translation solutions. The event will take place on February 21, 2026, and will offer insights into the possibilities and limitations of automated translation.
Participants will have the opportunity to try out various digital tools such as VR and AR glasses for themselves. In addition, specific application scenarios will be presented and critically evaluated. The education day also includes a tour of the interpreting booths and the ZHAW’s usability lab.