LEAP Spanish 1 for Healthcare

Codes: ULHS50010, ULHS90010 

Credits: NC (Payable fee)  

Pre-requisite: A level Spanish grade B/A taken in the last three years or equivalent  

Taught during: Both semesters (September to May). 

Method of delivery: Online  

Level of attainment: (B2+) By the end of the course, students should be able to perform at Level B2+ of the Common European Framework with Spanish basic medical specialised terminology. 

Timetable: Click here

Description

This specialised course is tailored for those working or interested in the healthcare industry and seeking to enhance their Spanish language skills for use in this sector. The course is designed to meet the communication needs of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, other healthcare workers and those studying for these professions. It covers basic essential medical vocabulary, patient interaction, and healthcare documentation. Through practical exercises, role-plays, and case studies, participants will improve their ability to engage in culturally sensitive, patient-centred communication and handle a range of clinical situations in Spanish-speaking environments. The course will improve their confidence and fluency when interacting with Spanish-speaking patients and colleagues.  

General topics covered

  • Medical Vocabulary and Terminology:  Anatomy, symptoms, diseases, treatments, and medications
  • Patient Interaction and Communication: Greeting patients, asking about symptoms, and explaining medical conditions 
  • Taking Medical History: Gathering patient information, including allergies, medications, and family history 
  •  Explaining Procedures and Treatments: Describing diagnostic tests, treatment plans, and follow-up care 
  • Emergency Situations:  Essential phrases and commands for urgent care scenarios 
  • Patient Instructions:  Providing clear post-treatment advice and medication instructions 
  • Healthcare Documentation: Filling out patient records, writing prescriptions, and completing medical reports 
  • Cultural Competence in Healthcare: Understanding Spanish-speaking patients’ cultural expectations and sensitivities
  • Medical Ethics and Confidentiality: Discussing patient rights and confidentiality in Spanish

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to: 

  • Use basic specialised medical Spanish vocabulary to discuss common symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments.
  • Conduct basic patient interviews and consultations in Spanish, including taking comprehensive medical histories. 
  • Explain basic medical procedures, diagnostic tests, and treatment plans in a patient-friendly manner. 
  • Complete healthcare documentation in Spanish, including patient charts, prescriptions, and discharge summaries. 
  • Navigate cross-cultural communication challenges and demonstrate cultural competence in Spanish-speaking healthcare environments. 

By the end of the course, students should be able to perform at Level B2+ of the Common European Framework with Spanish basic medical specialised terminology. 

Transferable skills 

Pair and team work, focused listening, informal presentations, language awareness, cultural appreciation.

Teaching and learning methods 

Two hours seminars per week, delivered online This will also include online digital learning available via the university VLE platform and will be supplemented by extra online resources to aid students in their independent learning. 

Teaching Hours

48 hours (2 hours per week) including assessment time 

Independent Study Hours

96 hours (not including assessment time) 

Assessment:  

Semester 1

  • Online written exam; 30 % weighting; held in week 12- Dates will be confirmed   

Semester 2

  • Online speaking exam (or equivalent); 30% weighting; held in week 11- (Medical Topic)
  • Online written exam; 40% weighting; dates will be confirmed. held in week 12- Dates will be confirmed   

Nature and timing of feedback 

Feedback will include a combination of informal ongoing feedback resulting from class-based learning activities and formal written feedback given following summative assessments. 

Convenor 

Dr Ana Niño 

Taught by 

Dr Ana Niño 

Maximum entry 

20 per group 

Set texts 

TBC 

Recommended texts 

TBC 

Pathway 

None