Important patient information now available in eight languages

Patients are now getting important safety information in their own language at Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) hospitals.

An award-winning patient safety video has been developed based on a similar concept from Royal Melbourne hospital and covers key messages including care plans, allergies and infection prevention – particularly important during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The video and hand out, titled ‘What matters to you matters to us’, was modified to meet the needs of clients from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds.

The Translation Service developed the video into the top seven languages in the district: Arabic, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Persian, Dari and Vietnamese.

“This project has been months in the making and would not have been possible without the hard work of many translators, voice actors, our video editor, consumer representatives and many others behind the scenes,” Translation Service manager Eva Melhem said.

“We are proud to have worked together to ensure the safety of all patients, including those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

“This tool focuses on enhancing CALD patient safety, improving their experience, and involving and engaging them in their own care to deliver safe, effective and person-centred care.”

Patients and members of the community reviewed the video and gave feedback to ensure it was easily understood and met the National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards.

Eva thanked the general manager’s unit at Westmead and Auburn hospitals, and especially change manager Kay Babalis, for initiating this project.

The video is now available on patient entertainment systems across the district, and accompanying patient safety brochures have also been translated.

To help you prepare for a safe time in hospital, watch the video below and read more on our website.