English for Medical Purposes: Evolution, Pedagogy, and Future Directions

English for Medical Purposes (EMP) has emerged as a critical domain within English for Specific Purposes (ESP), reflecting the growing need for effective communication in global healthcare contexts. This article traces the historical development of EMP, from its roots in general and specialized English instruction to its current interdisciplinary and technology-enhanced forms. It examines core pedagogical frameworks, including needs analysis, genre-based curriculum design, and task-oriented methodologies, while exploring innovative assessment strategies and the integration of digital tools such as artificial intelligence and immersive simulations. Through a deficit analysis, the study identifies persistent challenges in EMP instruction—ranging from curricular fragmentation and teacher training gaps to technological disparities and intercultural complexities. The article concludes by advocating for a unified, learner-centered EMP framework that aligns linguistic proficiency with professional competence, ethical sensitivity, and global engagement.