Medicine in a Multicultural Society

Question 1

What is culture

Answer 1

Complex whole which includes knowledge, beliefs, art, morals, law, customs etc.

It influences people’s values, actions and expectations of themselves and their perceptions and expectations of others

Question 2

Name 3 ways in which culture can affect health

Answer 2

1. Misunderstanding in diagnosis or treatment planning arising from differences in language or culture
2. Poor patient adherence with treatments and outcomes
3. Healthcare disparities

Question 3

What is transference

Answer 3

When the physician or patient transfers past emotions, beliefs or experiences to the present situation

Question 4

What are the culture barriers to a consultation

Answer 4

Lack of knowledge
Lack of trust 
Bias and ethnocentrism 
Stereotyping
Language barriers 
Different perceptions / expectations
Situation

Question 5

What is cultural competence

Answer 5

The ongoing capacity of healthcare systems, organisations and professionals to provide for diverse patient populations, high quality care which is safe, patient and family centred, evidence-based and equitable

Question 6

What 3 factors affects cultural competence

Answer 6

Knowledge - understanding the meaning of culture and its importance to healthcare

Attitudes - having respect for variations in cultural norms

Skills - eliciting patients explanatory models of illness

Question 7

Name 3 methods of eliciting patients explanatory models of illness

Answer 7

1. Ask questions to elicit the patient’s understanding of their illness
2. Have strategies for identifying and bridging the different communication styles
3. Have skills for assessing decision making preferences and the role of the family

Question 8

What questions can you ask a patient to elicit their understanding of their illness

Answer 8

• What do you call your problem
• What do you think caused your problem
• Why do you think it started when it did
• What does your sickness do to you
• Anyone else with the same problem
• What treatments do you think you should receive
• Who else can help you

Question 9

What are the potential problems of using a family member as a translator

Answer 9

Error
Lack of knowledge
Biases
Selective communication

Question 10

Name some basic communication strategies when dealing with cultural differences

Answer 10

• Speak clearly and slowly without raising voice
• Avoid slang, jargon, humour, idioms, gestures
• Avoid first names
• Do not dismiss beliefs of supernatural causes of illness