Understanding patients who are native speakers of English can be challenging for health professionals who are non-native speakers.

In follow-up visits, healthcare professionals need to ask questions that focus on what’s been happening with the patient since the last appointment.

Deciding which verb is the right one can be confusing.

What do health professionals say about writing in English when it’s not their first language?

Here are some reminders for when you’re telling patients what they need to do.

When talking about something as important as illness, patients expect to see a doctor, physio or therapist who has a good command of English.

What do health professionals say about writing in English when it’s not their first language?

You’ve got the specialised, job-related language down pat (mastered).

Do you sometimes feel that writing confidently and comfortably in English for work will never happen?

Have you ever been in another country when you’re not feeling well and are stuck for words to describe what’s wrong and what you need?

What do health professionals say about writing in English when it’s not their first language?

What do health professionals say about writing in English when it’s not their first language?

Two wrongs don’t make a right, but can two negatives make a positive?

How do you make a snowball?

Another common confusion is the difference between the verbs rise and raise.

What do health professionals say about writing in English when it’s not their first language?

From a patient’s perspective, dealing with health professionals who communicate well can make a huge difference.

Who hasn’t left a medical appointment feeling only half understood?

Describing pain is sometimes hard enough in your own language, but a language barrier makes it even harder to be sure the right message is getting across.

What do health professionals say about writing in English when it’s not their first language?