Analysing global Markets:
The market for medical products and services is continuously evolving. New treatments are reaching incredible levels of what is scientifically possible – so are the costs. Novel immunotherapies like the CAR-T therapy cost an eye-watering 475.000 USD per infusion.
Hence, it comes as no surprise that companies behind such figures have occasion to research the market thoroughly before launching a product. Through Marketing Companies who compose sophisticated scripts, they can assess every corner of the economy. And, to perform an optimal analysis of the foreign markets, the Translations for Medical Market Research should be done by a Medical Translators.
Localisation of Questions
To assess the market, you have to ask – the right questions. So when translating questions for market research the focus lies on precisely this – the QUESTION. Furthermore, avoid leading questions when translating.
The secret of a successful translation lies in the localisation.
Let’s take the example of qualitative market research:
This method looks into the meaning that people attribute to their behaviour and interactions. To achieve an accurate translation of such a survey, the translator should understand the culture and mentality of the participants.
Points to consider when translating for Market Research in the medical field:
Personal data
Obviously, it is the author’s responsibility that the source text is fully compliant with the rules relating to Personal Data Protection. However, should you have any doubts, then refer to the regulations that apply in your target country. In addition, point them out to your client.
For Europe, these rules are lined out in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Regulatory bodies
It is standard practice for market research companies to highlight that they follow a code of conduct like the MRS Code of Conduct in the UK.
Therefore, identify your country’s equivalent. Before including it in the translated script, however, check with the client if the research is compliant with it. Localise to the target county.
Medical devices
If the focus of the research relates to a medical device, it will be useful to know about the competitors. Get a feel of the current market condition. Also, a good knowledge of international standards such as ISO 13485 for Medical devices (Quality management systems) is always an advantage. However, this is mostly the duty of the sponsor.
Pharmaceuticals
In many instances, Market Research involves drug names. When localising pharmaceuticals, check the formulary of your target country and review the status of the active substance. Ensure that the substance is licensed for that particular indication. Additionally, If the research talks about brand names – this drug might have a different name in your region.
Websites for National/International Formularies:
UK: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc
Switzerland: http://www.swissmedicinfo.ch
Europe: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en
When dealing with Medical/Surgical Procedures
If the Translations for Medical Market Research involves procedures – surgical or diagnostic, familiarise yourself with it. Each country has its guidelines and treatment pathways which are usually available online. Some countries strictly adhere to guidelines; others are more open.
Specialist-facing
If the questionnaire is aimed at a healthcare specialist, it is necessary to get yourself tuned in with the terminology (jargon). Go and browse the website of the society associated with that medical speciality. Check them out and familiarise yourself with particular terms. Example: abbreviations, eponyms, acronyms, treatment protocols, formularies.
Patient-facing
For this kind of content, you need to put your local hat on and follow your instinct. Do what you do best – empathise. Simply put yourself into the shoes of the person being interviewed. Use the formality or informality that is expected in your country. Create a text that will establish trust and a great bond between interviewer and interviewee.
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