Med-Buddy

Problem

Miscommunication between patients with insufficient language skills and healthcare professionals has a negative impact on the quality of care as it may lead to conflicts, stress, lower satisfaction, and worse clinical outcomes. When a professional interpreter is not available, health workers often get by with gestures or facial expressions. The use of language translation tools contributes to overcoming the language barrier but there is still room for improvement.

Vision

Med-Buddy’s goal is to offer translated phrases commonly used in radiological settings to help enhance the communication between patients and health workers when they do not share the same language, thereby decreasing stress and improving the workflow. Med-Buddy also aims to improve patients’ cooperation and adherence to examination protocol and to increase their safety and satisfaction. The software is installed on a tablet and includes features beyond simple translations, such as audio files, pictures, and tutorial videos provided by a virtual person.

The users can choose the language they need and the required radiological examination. A virtual person offers explanations, information, and instructions in voice, visual, and text form. The idea is to preset the most common phrases. Med-Buddy aims to complement the information process and assist patients and healthcare professionals when facing language barriers.