Session Summary
Session Hosts:
- Tim Neufeld, AACM Executive Committee
Guest Presenters:
- Dr. Usha Maharaj MD LMCC CCFP
- Cheryl San Juan, AMA-ACTT
Recommended Resources
- Session Recording
- Webinar Slide Deck - PF Network December 2, 2024
- Cultural Diversity References List
- Effective Intercultural Communication
- Find an Interpreter - Multicultural Mental Health Resource Centre
- Translation Services - Immigrant Services Calgary
- Get Health System Information in Your Language - Alberta Health Services
- Indigenous Languages Interpretation & Translation Services - Alberta Health Services
- Alberta Health services offering translation services for indigenous languages - CFWE, Alberta's Best Country
- Guidelines for Use of Medical Interpreter - Association of American Medical Colleges
- Homepage - EthnoMed
Post-Session Resources Shared by Peers:
- Equity Walk-Through - Shared by Chinook PCN
Session Highlights & Themes
Session Objectives:
At the end of this webinar, you will be able to:
- Understand key concepts related to cultural diversity in healthcare settings
- Develop awareness of the LEARN model and practice the skills needed to facilitate effective communication and interactions across multiple cultures
Key Concepts:
- Culture - Refers to the ideas, customs, and behaviors of individuals within a group, including both visible (food, language) and invisible (values, beliefs) aspects. Every patient possesses a distinct worldview, influenced by their culture.
- Diversity - Encompasses a wide array of differences among people, including race, ethnicity, ability, literacy, and more.
Learn Model
The LEARN model is a cultural competency tool that provides guidelines in clinical practice for attending to issues in cross-cultural communication with patients.
- Listen with cultural sensitivity and be aware of your patient’s cultural perspective
- Explain your perspective on the health issue
- Acknowledge difference/similarities with your patient
- Recommend treatment respectfully and sensitively
- Negotiate an agreement with your patient and his/her family or caregiver
Key Takeaways
- Cultural Values and Beliefs: Influence the way individuals seek and access care.
- Humility and Curiosity: Are essential for effective intercultural communication.
- Translation and Language Barriers: Addressing these is critical for effective patient care.
- Patient-Centered Care: Incorporating patients' cultural perspectives leads to better health outcomes and satisfaction.
Practical Tips for Clinic Managers
- Clinic Culture: Reflect on the culture within the clinic and its impact on patient interactions.
- Team Discussions: Incorporate discussions about cultural perspectives into team huddles or patient reviews.
- Effort Over Perfection: Focus on the effort and grace in interactions rather than striving for perfection.
- Patient Education: Ensure patients understand the healthcare system and treatment plans, especially those new to the country.
- Holistic Approaches: Be open to incorporating patients' holistic or traditional health practices into care plans.
- Human Interaction: Focus on the importance of human skills and patient-centered approaches.