Pharmaceutical firms conducting market research on a global scale are presented with an irrevocable challenge: accurately translating medical research in order to determine the results of clinical tests and patient feedback.
The translation of medical documents and transcriptions require absolute accuracy.
A misunderstanding can lead to a costly error. The cost of medical errors is not only financial, but will also impact on the reputation of your company and the suffering caused to end-users.
A recent incident reported by the Journal of Specialised Translation described an incident in a Berlin hospital. The case involved 47 patients that had undergone knee-transplants in some distress. The issue arose because there are two types of prosthetic knee used for this type of surgery, with cement and without cement.
The source language in the instruction manual had stated the prothesis was ‘non-modular meaning the operation did not require cement. However, the term was incorrectly translated as ‘non-cemented’. The hospital had to recall every patient that had undergone the wrong procedure.
The Berlin case, although non-life threatening, highlighted the impact of incorrect medical translations that go undetected. It was concluded in this case that the measure of quality control was insufficient or non-existent.
Translation quality is a complex issue. Apart from accuracy and correct language use, client satisfaction and compliance are also brought into the equation. Selica navigate these potential barriers with a systematic approach that includes:
• Transcribing interviews from source language into target language/s
• Transcribing target language into target language
• Translating source language into target language/s
In addition, we use qualified linguists that are not only fully conversant in both languages, but also have a medical background. We regard this as highly important because of the complex nature of medical terminology and how medical research notes are often presented.
Translations in the medical arena also require multiple levels of quality control and an understanding of the regulations of drug development. Using in-house translators and quality measures may not be adequate.
The translators we use at Selica International are qualified medical professionals and have an excellent understanding of the terminology and abbreviations used in both languages. Furthermore, we are members of BHBIA, have a strict data protection policy and look to deliver a headache-free service every time. For more information contact a member of our knowledgeable team today.
selicaie 