A "code-switching" model for healthcare communication

Abstract

This article examines how technical terminology in public-facing communication creates epistemic barriers that undermine trust between experts and the public-especially in multilingual, multicultural healthcare systems. It argues that health leaders can foster trust by employing a "code-switching" model within institutions and in patient- or public-facing communications. Code-switching is a linguistic phenomenon in which individuals switch between languages, dialects, or language varieties based on the social context. Recognizing "public-speak" and "medical-speak" as distinct codes would facilitate patient understanding of information relevant to their care and promote trust. Health leaders play a crucial role in ensuring that complex medical information is translated into accessible language, bridging the gap between experts and the public.