Cultural influences on health and illness Explain concepts of cultural diversity and respect. Describe influences that affect culturally respectful health care Discuss examples of how diversity affects health and illness care, including culturally based traditional care. Identify factors commonly included in a transcultural assessment of health-related beliefs and practices. * HAS TO BE DONE IN APA STYLE 4 PAGES DOBLE SPACE MARGIN AND AT LEAST 3 REFERENCES Purchase the answer to view it
Cultural diversity and respect play significant roles in shaping health beliefs, practices, and care. These concepts are crucial in providing culturally sensitive and respectful health care to individuals from diverse backgrounds. This paper aims to explain the concepts of cultural diversity and respect, discuss influences that affect culturally respectful health care, describe examples of how diversity affects health and illness care, including culturally based traditional care, and identify factors commonly included in a transcultural assessment of health-related beliefs and practices.
Cultural diversity refers to the variety of cultures, values, beliefs, languages, traditions, customs, and practices present within a population or group (Andrews & Boyle, 2016). It recognizes that individuals come from different backgrounds and have unique perspectives on health and illness. Respect, on the other hand, involves valuing and acknowledging the diverse beliefs and practices of individuals and communities, without judgment or discrimination (Fairchild et al., 2017). It incorporates active listening, empathy, and an openness to understanding different cultural perspectives.
Several influences affect the provision of culturally respectful health care. Firstly, cultural attitudes and beliefs about health and illness vary across different groups. These attitudes and beliefs may influence help-seeking behaviors, preferences for treatment, and adherence to health recommendations (Kagawa-Singer & Kassim-Lakha, 2003). Therefore, health care providers must be aware of and sensitive to the cultural values and expectations of patients.
Secondly, language barriers can significantly impact communication and access to health care services. When patients and providers do not share a common language, communication can be challenging, potentially leading to misunderstanding, misdiagnosis, and inappropriate or ineffective treatment (Flores, 2006). Efforts should be made to provide language interpretation services or utilize trained interpreters to bridge the communication gap.
Thirdly, socioeconomic and environmental factors can also influence health care. Individuals from certain cultural backgrounds may face higher rates of poverty, limited access to health services, and discrimination, which can contribute to health disparities (Braveman et al., 2011). Health care providers need to consider these factors when providing care to ensure equitable and culturally responsive services.
Diversity can profoundly affect health and illness care. Examples of how diversity influences health and illness care include culturally based traditional care. Many cultures have traditional healing practices and remedies that are deeply rooted in their history and beliefs. These practices often involve the use of herbal medicine, spiritual rituals, and specific cultural rituals to promote healing and well-being (Andrews & Boyle, 2016). Health care providers need to be sensitive to these practices and integrate them into patients’ treatment plans when appropriate.
For instance, some Indigenous cultures use smudging, a spiritual practice involving the burning of sacred herbs, to cleanse the body and promote healing (McQuaig, 2018). Integrating this practice into the healing process can enhance the patient’s sense of cultural identity and provide comfort during their treatment journey.
Another example is the practice of traditional Chinese medicine, which utilizes acupuncture, herbal remedies, and tai chi as holistic approaches to promoting health and addressing illness (Chang et al., 2019). Recognizing and incorporating these practices into patient care can lead to more favorable treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction.
A transcultural assessment is essential in understanding individuals’ health-related beliefs and practices. Factors commonly included in a transcultural assessment include language preferences, religious or spiritual beliefs, dietary practices, perceptions of health and illness causation, and cultural norms around personal space and touch (Campinha-Bacote, 2003). Assessing these factors helps health care providers tailor their care plans and interventions to align with patients’ cultural values and preferences. Furthermore, it allows for the identification of potential barriers and challenges that may affect successful health outcomes.
In conclusion, cultural diversity and respect are integral to providing effective and culturally sensitive health care. Understanding cultural diversity, acknowledging diverse health beliefs and practices, and conducting transcultural assessments are essential in promoting patient-centered care and addressing health disparities. Health care providers must adapt their practices to be inclusive, responsive, and respectful of individuals’ cultural backgrounds in order to provide equitable and effective care.