How To Use Medical Terminology In Your Oet Writing

By Author: shaimaglobosoft
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In preparing for the Occupational English Test (OET) specifically the Writing sub-test, one of the best skills the healthcare professional needs to acquire is the proper and efficient use of medical terms. The OET Writing task tests your competence in communicating in an occupational and clinical setting, which involves using medical words precisely and correctly.

Why Medical Terminology Matters in OET Writing
The OET Writing sub-test assesses your ability to write a letter (usually a referral, discharge, or transfer letter) based on case notes. Since the target reader is another healthcare professional, your use of medical terminology should reflect a clinical environment.
Using correct medical terminology:
Demonstrates your professional knowledge

Ensures precise and clear communication

Shows your ability to operate effectively in an English-speaking healthcare setting

Learn the Commonly Used Medical Terms
Before you dive into writing, make sure you’re familiar with the most common medical vocabulary in your field (nursing, medicine, physiotherapy, etc.). ...
... For example:
Cardiovascular system: hypertension, angina, myocardial infarction

Respiratory system: COPD, asthma, shortness of breath

Digestive system: GERD, nausea, bowel movements

Also, be familiar with abbreviations, but only use ones that are widely accepted and appropriate in formal writing (e.g., “BP” for blood pressure, “HR” for heart rate). Avoid local or uncommon abbreviations.
Equilibrium of Technical and Layman's Terminology

A universal issue is how and when to switch between using more medical jargon and simpler vocabulary. For OET Writing, as you are writing to another healthcare practitioner, it is typically acceptable to include technical vocabulary. But in allusions to what the patient mentioned or the way they would know something, basic vocabulary works.

For instance:

"The patient complained of dizziness and lightheadedness, particularly on waking up in the morning."

He has a history of Type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension."

This method helps your writing to be both precise and compassionate.

Use Medical Terminology in Context
It’s not just about using fancy terms – context matters. Make sure every medical term you use fits naturally within your sentence and adds clarity.
Consider this poor example:
“Patient has diabetes. Hypertension also present. Blood pressure high.”
Now compare it to a well-written sentence:
“The patient has a history of Type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension. Her current blood pressure reading is 160/100 mmHg.”
Notice how the second version uses terminology appropriately and provides clarity.
Avoid Overuse or Misuse
Using too much technical language can make your writing seem robotic or unnatural. Also, incorrect usage can lead to misinterpretation or loss of marks.
Tips to avoid this:
Don’t force medical terms where they don’t belong.

Always double-check the spelling and usage.

When unsure about a term, it’s better to rephrase than to risk being incorrect.
Practice with Real Case Notes
To get comfortable using medical vocabulary in writing, practice with sample case notes. This helps you:
Recognize where medical terms naturally fit

Practice paraphrasing without changing clinical meaning

Learn how to prioritize relevant medical information

As you write, try to imagine you're briefing a colleague who hasn’t seen the patient — your writing should be informative, precise, and to the point.
Review and Get Feedback
Even if you're confident in your vocabulary, feedback from experienced OET trainers or healthcare professionals can help refine your writing. Focused feedback helps you:
Spot recurring errors

Learn alternative, more effective ways to phrase information

Understand how well you're using terminology
Conclusion
Mastering medical terminology is crucial for excelling in the OET Writing sub-test. By learning relevant vocabulary, using it appropriately, and practicing regularly, you can significantly boost your writing clarity and professional tone.
At Let's Update, we understand the importance of strong communication skills for healthcare professionals. That’s why we offer expert-led online OET coaching in Kerala and classroom training in Kochi. Recognized as the best OET coaching center in Kochi, we provide top-notch training tailored to your career goals. We also offer the best OET training in Ernakulam and high-quality IELTS coaching in Kochi to help students achieve their dream scores.
Whether you're a nurse, doctor, or healthcare worker aiming to work abroad, mastering medical writing starts with the right training—and Let's Update is here to guide you every step of the way.