A culturally sensitive consultation model
Jill Benson
Health in Human Diversity Unit, Discipline of General Practice, University of Adelaide; Migrant Health Service, Nunkuwarrin Yunti, and Parklands Medical Practice, Adelaide SA
PP: 097 - 104
Abstract
Cultural sensitivity is not only about those patients who come from a different country to that of the practitioner, but also includes those with other differences such as family background, education, religion, belief system or socio-political outlook. If the patient feels their beliefs, values and practices are understood and respected by the practitioner, there is an increased likelihood a good relationship will be established and the patient will trust the doctor and the clinical procedures.
To be more culturally sensitive in consultations, three additional variables - ethnocentrism, health literacy and transcultural perceptions of illness - need to be taken into account. It is near impossible for doctors to undertake education for themselves on the ever-growing variety of cultural factors that can influence the interaction with patients. Some practical ways of communicating are outlined in the use of the Cultural Awareness Tool and Narrative Therapy.
Keywords
cultural sensitivity, ethnocentrism, health literacy, narrative therapy, Aboriginal health, refugee health, multicultural mental health
Article Text
Cultural sensitivity is not only about those patients who come from a different country to that of the practitioner, but also includes those with other differences such as family background, education, religion, belief system or socio-political outlook. Essentially, culture is about the individual 'self' and how that self is influenced by the surroundings in which it has developed. Culture provides people with a framework within which they can relate to one another and co-exist. It is a means for the transmission, over time, of ideas, values and customs, and, more generally, ways of living. It is a 'system of meanings that is learned, that provides people with a distinctive sense of reality and which helps shape behavior and affective responses' (Thakker & Ward, 1998).
When thinking about how to be more culturally sensitive in consultations, doctors need to take into account three additional variables - ethnocentrism, health literacy and transcultural perceptions of illness.
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Reproduced with permission of The Editor, Medicine Today: Benson J (2005) A culturally sensitive consultation model, Medicine Today 3(2), 84-89.
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