Cultural Considerations

Posted on June 23, 2016

A tip sheet for the culturally sensitive practitioner

Culture can be defined as the pattern of behavior, beliefs, values, communication, and customs as affected by racial, ethnic, geographical, socioeconomic, biological, and/or spiritual factors. Culture is sometimes seen as only relevant when grouped by various ethnic/racial identities, but each individual’s culture will affect his/her treatment in more subtle ways and should be taken into consideration. The following are some tips for taking into account each person’s culture and how it may affect your client/patient approach.

• Be aware of patients’ sense of space. Some cultures are comfortable with very close communication and affection, while others prefer more distance. Watch your patients for nonverbal cues when greeting and speaking with them.
• Ask your patients about their eating habits so you can be aware of how this may affect their treatment. Certain cultures avoid foods or change their eating habits at different times of the year. For example, Muslims will fast during the month of Ramadan, so practitioners may need to counsel these patients about changing the timing of certain medications that need to be taken with food, or discuss appropriate exercise routines during this month.
• Be aware that different cultures have different senses of time. Patients who consider time to be more flexible may value relationships over punctuality. These patients may come late for their appointments.
• Ask patients about their support systems. While support systems will vary due to many factors, culture may play a role. Some cultures are community-based and have many supports, while others may be more individualized with fewer supports in place. This can affect accountability in treatment, emotional well-being, financial assistance, etc.
• In many cultures, mental health diagnoses are stigmatized. Take a person-centered approach with members to try to understand their views on topics such as addiction, depression, anxiety, etc., before suggesting testing or treatment. This can help to ease into topics that may be uncomfortable for certain people.
• Do not assume that patients have a certain health literacy level. Education gaps will exist, and it is important to ensure concepts are explained in detail, with opportunities to ask questions.

Categories: Hedis Help, HNE/Industry News and Information