“Although in ophthalmology everything is visible, I must first learn how to use my ears.”
This quote from the textbook Professional Communication in English: Medical Opticians captures the core of patient communication: listening. Precise history-taking and asking the right questions have always been the cornerstone of patient care. But what happens when a language barrier complicates this interaction?
Language barriers in healthcare can lead to misunderstandings and even errors in treatment. This textbook tackles the challenges of professional communication in English for non-native speakers, with a focus on eye care. It’s not just about mastering medical terminology—it’s about effectively engaging with patients, explaining diagnoses, and offering care with clarity and empathy.
Why This Textbook Stands Out
The book is well-structured, consisting of 28 units, starting with the anatomy of the eye and moving through key topics like optical equipment, common eye disorders, and even optical illusions. Each chapter not only provides technical knowledge but also practical communication strategies to help students explain these concepts to their patients.
Key Topics Covered
Vision Tests and Eye Health: Learn how to explain complex procedures like intraocular pressure tests and peripheral vision screenings in simple terms.
- Dealing with Prescriptions: The book includes situational lessons on explaining eyeglass prescriptions and contact lens care, both of which can be confusing for patients.
- Common Eye Disorders: Clear explanations of conditions like macular degeneration and dry eyes, with guidance on how to describe these issues to patients without overwhelming them with jargon.
Each chapter includes quizzes, role-playing activities, and comprehension exercises, helping medical students practice speaking, reading, listening, and writing—all aligned with B1-B2 levels of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Practical Exercises and Real-Life Scenarios
What sets this textbook apart is its focus on interactive learning. In Unit 1, for example, students are asked, “What are the main structures of the human eye?” followed by reading comprehension tasks and labeling diagrams, creating a dynamic learning experience. The book goes beyond vocabulary, encouraging practical application through role-play scenarios. Students simulate patient consultations, learning how to address concerns about vision loss or explain different lens types.
More Than Just English
The authors have designed this textbook to be a career-long resource. For instance, the chapter on lenses not only teaches you how to say “astigmatism” in English but also delves into the practicalities of fitting contact lenses, choosing the right frame, and advising patients on UV protection. This makes it a valuable reference even after graduation.
Should You Get It?
If you’re an international student or a healthcare professional seeking to improve your English communication skills, this textbook is indispensable. It balances technical knowledge with practical communication skills, making it ideal for preparing for real-world interactions in eye care settings. Key benefits include:
- Comprehensive coverage of all major topics in eye care.
- Practical exercises that mimic real-life patient interactions.
- Suitable for both beginners and advanced students.
- Aligned with B1-B2 levels of CEFR, making it accessible to most learners.
Professional Communication in English: Medical Opticians, authored by Ilina Doykova and Valentina Yordanova, and published by Varna Medical University Press in 2024, is a must-have resource for anyone studying or practicing in the field of eye care. Whether you’re an optician or an ophthalmologist, this book uniquely combines language training with professional guidance, helping students master English communication in clinical settings.
For students in other medical fields, another book from the Medical University of Varna may be more suitable: Professional Communication in English: Medicine. Both textbooks are available in MU-Varna bookstores or online.