Words in wards: language, health and place

The role of place in medical encounters which involve language is examined using theoretical arguments backed by empirical studies. Links between language and place, health and place and especially language and health are discussed. The language-health link is developed in terms of explanatory models; how language is used in medical encounters; and power, dominance and resistance relationships. Then it is shown how considerations of place enhance knowledge about this link. The paper closes with a set of research questions which focus on the role of place.