What is it about?
Cultural competence is an acknowledged skill set for health care professionals (HCP) because differences in cultural values and practices are a recognized barrier to communication between the HCP and patient. These differences are apparent in Asian Arab states comprised of diverse populations and dialects where foreign health professionals hold little or no knowledge of the local Arabic language or its dialects, even though Arabic is the primary language. Bilingual Arab HCPs also face communication barriers relating to their foreign counterparts. Overcoming compounding factors by developing a culturally competent workforce can be accomplished if HCPs adopt a cost-effective strategy of personal assessment, communication, and self-management in relation to caregiver attitudes and systemic practices. The exceeding number of expatriates and diverse demographic trends in Arab Asian countries emphasize the need for HCPs to focus on patient needs and respect their cultural values.
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Why is it important?
Knowing your patient is more than reading their chart. It is about creating trust so that you can formulate treatment recommendations with greater potential to improve patient outcomes.
Perspectives
Communication is key to adherence of medical regimen. Actively understanding the cultural perspective of your patient increases their potential to feel comfortable with recommended treatments. Sensitivity to cultural differences enhances this trust and forms the necessary bond to promote adherence to prescribed recommendations.
Ms. Beth A. Fiedler
University of Central Florida
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Culture, language, and health care professionals, January 2020, Elsevier,
DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-819008-1.00008-0.
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