Generative artificial intelligence 3: language translation

This paper explores the evolving role of generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) in addressing digital inequality – particularly in healthcare settings. While technology holds significant potential to bridge communication gaps, disparities in access to digital resources and limitations in training data currently constrain the effectiveness of translation tools. Key challenges such as the underrepresentation of low-resourced language groups, accuracy issues, and artificial intelligence (AI) hallucination are discussed. Ongoing trials and innovations within healthcare language translation are explored, suggesting potential applications of Gen AI translation for non-emergency medical tasks, such as discharge summaries. Despite these advancements, there is a critical need for more inclusive, culturally sensitive translation solutions and careful attention to the appropriate setting and prompt design, to ensure equitable access to healthcare, enhance patient–provider communication and improve the overall quality of care.