¡°In many instances knowing the person who has the disease is as important as knowing the disease the person has.¡± (James McCormick, 1996)
Ideas about adulthood and independence are shaped by our culture and past experiences. Culture determines:
- How parents and children view their health condition, including how limiting it will be on their future achievements
- How autonomous children are expected, or allowed, to be
- What types of health promotion activities are practiced
- Who people prefer to talk to about health concerns, including mental health concerns
- Ideas about who should be involved in health-related decisions
- How well people understand the healthcare system
- How much people trust the healthcare system and those who work in it
Cultural competence is the ability to understand, appreciate, and relate in a positive way with people who have a culture different from your own. Here are some ways to increase your cultural competence:
- is a Canadian Paediatric Society guideline on initial investigations and management steps for those who are new to Canada.
- Diverse Populations offers education and resources for healthcare providers to better support patients from diverse backgrounds.
