SPAN 121 Introduction to Basic Medical Spanish

This beginner Spanish course integrates foundational Spanish language skills with essential medical vocabulary and cultural competency. Students will practice real-world scenarios including basic patient interactions and explore how cultural perspectives shape healthcare in Spanish-speaking communities. Course participants will develop skills valuable for healthcare careers and patient advocacy.

Credits

4

Prerequisite

SPAN 101 or placement into SPAN 102 or instructor consent

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Use memorized words and phrases to greet patients and introduce themselves

2. Ask memorized questions about basic symptoms and state basic medical instructions using memorized phrases

3. Respond to simple yes/no questions about patient conditions

4. Engage in basic conversation in Spanish using medical and health-care-related expressions and terminology

5. Interpret Spanish language descriptions of symptoms, pain locations, and intensity levels as expressed by patients

6. Deploy basic patient education instructions in Spanish using learned vocabulary and phrases

7. Demonstrate cultural awareness and respect when interacting with Spanish-speaking patients

8. Identify and present on local Latino health initiatives or challenges, demonstrating an understanding of both healthcare access and cultural factors in their community