Language support is part of safe treatment planning, not just travel convenience. Patients need to understand consent, diagnosis, medication instructions and discharge plans. Interpreter availability and payment rules differ by hospital, so language needs should be raised before the appointment.
Tell the hospital your language needs early
Do not assume that a specialist who speaks English or another language will be available for every appointment. Tell the International Patient Office which language the patient and companion can reliably use for medical communication.
Some international offices arrange interpreters
UKE's published international-patient process includes arrangement of an interpreter before treatment and translation of medical reports around discharge. University Hospital Dresden also states that its international service organizes interpretation services and notes that outside interpreters are paid by the patient.
Ask what is included and who pays
Interpreter services may be provided internally, arranged externally or charged separately.
- Which languages are available?
- Is interpretation available during consent discussions?
- Is the interpreter employed by the hospital or external?
- What is the hourly or appointment charge if paid separately?
- Can written reports be issued or translated into English?
- How is interpretation handled outside normal office hours?
A companion should not automatically replace a medical interpreter
A family member can provide valuable support, but complex consent and treatment discussions may require accurate professional interpretation. Ask the clinical team what it considers appropriate for important medical conversations.
Translate key records before submission when required
Hospitals such as Erlangen require submitted medical documentation in German or English. Follow the individual center's instructions and preserve the original report alongside the translation so dates, measurements and diagnoses can be checked.
Official sources
Last source-reviewed 2026-08-29. Administrative, insurance, reimbursement and visa rules can change. Follow the current instructions of the responsible hospital, insurer or public authority before acting.