Improving Equity of Care for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Patients: Utilising Multilingual Software to...

Breath-hold techniques, including Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) and Exhalation Breath Hold (EBH), are commonly used in radiation therapy to reduce radiation exposure to organs at risk while maintaining accurate tumour targeting. However, high failure rates during breath-hold simulations have been associated with patient anxiety and insufficient preparation-particularly when instruction is given only 20 min prior to the procedure. These challenges are amplified for patients from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. To address this, a multilingual mobile application (app) has been developed to improve patient education, communication, and compliance, with a particular focus on supporting CALD patients. Replacing traditional pamphlets with interactive instructional videos, visual aids, and real-time translation in seven languages, the app allows patients to familiarise themselves with breath-hold techniques before their Computed Tomography (CT) simulation. A General Radiation Therapy (RT) section in the app further supports communication between radiation therapists (RTs) and their patients by providing translated commands for standard patient positioning and movement instructions, improving accuracy and workflow efficiency. The app integrates with in-room sound systems, allowing RTs to provide remote coaching while maintaining clear and consistent communication. Additionally, the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section of the app addresses common concerns that patients have about radiation therapy, helping them gain a better understanding with the possibility of reducing anxiety. The app has been implemented at the Northern Sydney Cancer Centre (NSCC) and is expected to improve patient compliance in breath-hold techniques and streamline clinical workflows.