Language barriers increase the risk of misunderstandings, for example when recording symptoms, providing medical information, or explaining the course of treatment. Important questions, concerns, or comments from patients may not be fully understood or taken into account. This can lead to delayed diagnosis, poor treatment adherence, or treatment discontinuation. However, especially in the case of tuberculosis, effective communication is crucial to ensure accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and infection control, as well as to provide patients with adequate support during the often long and arduous course of therapy.

Professional interpreters and language and cultural mediators help ensure that medical information is conveyed accurately, completely, and clearly. They reduce the risk of misunderstandings and facilitate neutral communication in which both patient information and medical recommendations are reliably conveyed. In addition, they can help build trust and strengthen the partnership between patients and medical staff.

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