Write an 900 words essay (APA format) contracting the three study heritages discussing the cultural health care beliefs of the study heritages and how they influence the delivery of evidence-based health care. References must be no older than 5 years. A minimum of 900 words must be presented excluding the first and reference page.
Title: Cultural Health Care Beliefs and Their Influence on Evidence-Based Health Care Delivery in Study Heritages
Introduction:
Culture plays a significant role in shaping individuals’ beliefs, values, and behaviors, including their attitudes towards health care. The three study heritages examined in this paper, namely, African American, Native American, and Asian American, represent diverse cultural backgrounds that contribute to variations in health care beliefs and practices. Understanding the cultural health care beliefs of these study heritages and their influence on the delivery of evidence-based health care is crucial for providing culturally competent care and improving patient outcomes.
African American Cultural Health Care Beliefs:
African American cultural health care beliefs are influenced by historical experiences, spiritual and religious traditions, and social norms. Historically, African Americans have faced significant barriers to accessing quality health care, leading to a deep-rooted distrust of the health care system. This mistrust is influenced by the legacy of slavery, unethical medical experimentation, and racial discrimination. It affects their willingness to engage with evidence-based health care practices.
Spirituality and religion also play a vital role in the health beliefs of African Americans. Many draw strength from their faith and believe in the power of prayer for healing. This belief can influence their decision-making about seeking medical care and adherence to evidence-based treatments. Traditional healing practices, such as herbal remedies and cultural healing rituals, may also be incorporated alongside Western medical interventions.
The influence of social norms and community networks must also be considered when delivering evidence-based health care to African Americans. The concept of familism, where family and extended kinship networks are highly valued, may impact decisions related to health care utilization and treatment choices. Health decisions are often made in consultation with family members, community elders, and spiritual leaders.
Native American Cultural Health Care Beliefs:
Native American cultural health care beliefs are deeply rooted in their spiritual and ancestral connections to the land, nature, and traditional healing practices. Many Native Americans maintain a holistic perspective on health, viewing it as a balance between physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This holistic perspective may differ from the reductionist approach of evidence-based medicine, which focuses on specific symptoms and diseases.
Traditional healing practices, such as herbal medicine, smudging, and sweat lodges, are often preferred by Native Americans alongside Western medical interventions. These practices are believed to restore harmony and balance within the individual and the community. Health care providers must respect and integrate these beliefs into evidence-based care plans to build trust and rapport.
The influence of community and tribal traditions on health care decisions is another crucial aspect to consider. Many Native Americans place great importance on maintaining strong community ties and rely on traditional healers, tribal elders, and medicine men/women for guidance and healing. The use of traditional ceremonies and rituals, such as powwows and ceremonies, may also shape their attitudes towards health care.
Asian American Cultural Health Care Beliefs:
Asian American cultural health care beliefs are diverse and influenced by various factors, including country of origin, language, religion, and social norms. It is essential to recognize the heterogeneity within the Asian American community, which comprises various subgroups such as Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Filipino, among others.
Asian Americans often adhere to traditional Eastern philosophies, such as Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, which emphasize the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. This holistic perspective may influence their health care decisions and preferences. Traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, and herbal remedies are commonly used alongside evidence-based medical interventions. The concept of yin and yang, balancing opposing forces, is central to health and disease management for many Asian Americans.
Family plays a significant role in Asian American health care decisions, with filial piety and respect for elders deeply ingrained. Multigenerational households are common, with older family members often responsible for making health care decisions for the entire family. Cultural norms, such as saving face and maintaining harmonious relationships, may affect communication with health care professionals and adherence to treatment plans.
The Influence on Evidence-Based Health Care Delivery:
These cultural health care beliefs of the three study heritages significantly influence the delivery of evidence-based health care. Several key considerations can enhance the provision of culturally competent care and bridge the gap between evidence-based medicine and cultural beliefs:
1. Culturally sensitive communication: Health care professionals must be aware of and respectful of patients’ cultural beliefs and values. Effective communication strategies, such as active listening, empathy, and the use of interpreters when necessary, can facilitate rapport-building and shared decision-making.
2. Collaboration and shared decision-making: Involving patients and their families in the health care decision-making process, acknowledging their preferences and beliefs, is crucial for effective treatment planning. Incorporating traditional healing practices, when appropriate, can enhance patient engagement and improve treatment outcomes.
3. Education and training: Health care providers should continually update their cultural knowledge, ensuring they are aware of the diverse beliefs and practices within different cultural groups. Collaborating with community leaders and cultural experts can provide valuable insights and support in delivering culturally competent care.
Conclusion:
Understanding the cultural health care beliefs of African American, Native American, and Asian American study heritages is essential for healthcare professionals to provide effective and culturally competent care. By embracing cultural diversity and incorporating patients’ beliefs and preferences, evidence-based health care delivery can be enhanced, ultimately improving patient outcomes and reducing health disparities. The integration of cultural competence into evidence-based practice is an ongoing process that requires continuous education, open-mindedness, and a commitment to providing equitable health care for all individuals.