Cultural competence

What is Cultural Competence?

This refers to the ability of healthcare providers to understand and appreciate the cultural backgrounds and beliefs of their patients, and to provide care that is respectful and responsive to their needs. Culturally competent care can help to reduce healthcare disparities and improve patient outcomes, as patients are more likely to trust and follow the advice of providers who understand their cultural context.

Examples of culturally competent care include using interpreters or bilingual staff to communicate with patients who speak a different language, being aware of cultural differences in attitudes towards illness and health, and incorporating cultural traditions or practices into treatment plans where appropriate.