Deactivated Posts: Re: Topic 3 DQ 1 Cultural Competency Is C
Deactivated1 Postsretopic 3 Dq 1cultural Competency Is Considered To
Cultural competency is regarded as a crucial element in eliminating health disparities. It begins with a sincere willingness to set aside personal biases and treat each individual with respect and dignity (Edelman, Kudzma & Mandle, 2014). Culture significantly influences various aspects of health and wellness, including belief systems, perceptions of illness, health-seeking behaviors, and attitudes towards healthcare providers (Edelman, Kudzma & Mandle, 2014). Consequently, healthcare professionals must develop cultural competence to effectively serve diverse populations.
Every patient and healthcare provider brings their unique cultural beliefs, values, and perceptions to the healthcare encounter. Recognizing and respecting these diverse backgrounds are essential to delivering equitable and effective care. However, understanding all cultures can be challenging due to the complex interactions between individual beliefs and the healthcare provider’s own cultural framework (GCU, 2011). Healthcare providers must acquire a foundational knowledge of various cultural practices and beliefs to facilitate high-quality, culturally sensitive care (GCU, 2011).
Effective cultural competence involves healthcare professionals being respectful of and responsive to the cultural needs, practices, and values of their patients. When providers demonstrate awareness and sensitivity towards diverse health beliefs, they can help reduce negative health outcomes and foster trust within the patient-provider relationship (Edelman, Kudzma & Mandle, 2014). This approach helps to eliminate barriers to care and improves patient adherence to treatment plans.
Recognizing cultural diversity in the healthcare setting entails understanding and accepting that each individual’s cultural background influences their health behaviors and expectations. Healthcare professionals should strive to learn about different cultures, acknowledging that every culture has distinct beliefs and practices that influence health decisions (Edelman, Kudzma & Mandle, 2014). Respecting these differences and incorporating cultural considerations into care strategies are vital steps in achieving cultural competence, which ultimately leads to better health outcomes and reduced disparities among marginalized populations.
References
- Edelman, C., Kudzma, E., & Mandle, C. (2014). Health promotion throughout the lifespan (8th ed., pp. 26). Elsevier.
- Grand Canyon University. (2011). Culture and cultural competency in health promotion. Retrieved from https://college.careers/gcu.edu