Toolkit for Translating Health Information: A Resource for Crisis Health Communication and beyond

Abstract Issue/Problem Translating health information accurately and effectively presented a critical challenge in crisis communication during the pandemic. In linguistically diverse contexts, ensuring access to vital health information is essential for promoting public health outcomes. Addressing this issue, we summarized our experience in a comprehensive toolkit for translating health information, aiming to enhance accessibility, reliability, and relevance across various settings and countries. Description of the Problem Our initiative responds to the need for standardized translation practices in the dissemination of health information in Norway. Translation practices in the health sector often lack standardization, leading to inconsistencies, inaccuracies, and risk of less comprehension. Questions guiding our project included: How can lessons learned from the extensive translation work done during the pandemic improve the accuracy and consistency of health information translation in general? Results We have developed a practical toolkit tailored to diverse linguistic and cultural contexts. Our toolkit summarizes lessons learned from extensive translation work during the pandemic, supported by validation from experts in the field of translation. The toolkit has been welcomed by other organizations, which underscores the potential of standardized translation tools to mitigate barriers to health communication in multilingual settings. Lessons Lessons gleaned from translating information during the pandemic highlight the importance of evidence-based translation practices, knowledge of the target demographic and the integration of cultural considerations into translation workflows. Furthermore, our experience underscores the value of inclusive approaches in development, promotion and distribution of the translated materials. Key messages • Standardized translation tools can increase access to vital health information, fostering equitable health outcomes. • Collaboration and inclusive approaches are key drivers in advancing standardized translation practices for effective health communication.