Developing a Culturally Competent Health Network: A Planning Framework and Guide

Impact of Cultural Diversity in Inter Professional Practice and Patient Centred Care

“…It is of increasing importance in recent years due to a variety of factors, including changing demographics and quality improvement missions in health care institutions [1]. A study done in Pennsylvania over the past few years has provided a framework and guidelines for improving culturally competent care delivery and thereby improving the quality, safety, and equitability of this care.…”

“…Because of the high Latino population in the area, the task force elected to offer Latino meals in hospital cafeterias, have signs in Spanish, and have a special kind of practice consisting of Spanishspeaking health professionals and support staff. The network also supplied health-related courses in the Spanish language and offered a program for medical staff in Puerto Rico [1].…”

“…Support services should also be provided for those who are hearing impaired with tele-interpretation technology. Clinicians should attend education programs regarding different cultural groups and their religious beliefs and practices, death and dying rituals, and opinions regarding healthcare institutions [1].…”

“…Gertner et al [1] offers suggestions on implementing a more culturally competent healthcare system, and they are as follows: data collection and analysis to determine areas for improvement, addressing the unique needs of the population by developing customized services for that area, and developing relationships with members of the community. Finally, cultural awareness, diversity, and competency initiatives must not occur only in sections of a network.…”

“…Finally, cultural awareness, diversity, and competency initiatives must not occur only in sections of a network. Rather, it must span all of the hospitals, clinics, and home care companies within a region that make up that network, and include all of the people that work for these institutions and the patients or clients they serve [1].…”