Answer

Cultural Competency

Cultural competency is an aspect that has gained popularity in the healthcare sector. It refers to ability to provide patients with care that respects and addresses their cultural, social, and linguistic needs (Jeffreys, 2015, p 3). Studies have pointed out that cultural competency plays a vital role in minimizing health disparities and enhancing access to high quality care in clinical settings (Isaacson, 2014, p 256). It is in the light of this context that this paper discuses an instance when I was effective while working in a different culture. It also highlights some of the challenges that I encountered during this period and my keys to success.

During one of my practical experience, I got an opportunity to interact and work with Native American patients. In this case, I discovered that the Native American culture tends to combine spirituality, religion, herbal medicine, and rituals in the healing process (Sanchez, Plawecki, & Plawecki, 2016, p 305). That is to say, Native Americans believe that illness is caused by spirits and hence consult medicine men for cleansing and healing. They also prefer using herbal medicine for treatment as opposed to other drugs and therapies. Moreover, they engage in purifying rituals to cleanse the body and prepare it for healing.

Challenges and My Keys to Success

 One of the key challenges that I encountered while working with the Native Americans was culture shock.  In other words, I could not comprehend some of their beliefs and practices which were detrimental to their health such as not seeking timely treatment or consulting medicine men for cleansing and healing (Sanchez et al., 2016, p 301). In this case, my key to success was familiarizing myself with their cultural beliefs and practices which made it easier for me to interact and understand the patients better thus improving our relationship (Jeffreys, 2015, p 5). Similarly, I utilized patient education to help the Native Americans understand the significance of timely treatment, as well as the causes and risk factors of their ailments, and how to manage them effectively. Furthermore, I worked closely with care providers who were familiar with the culture thus making my work easier.

In conclusion, cultural competency is a significant aspect that plays a key role in minimizing health disparities and enhancing access to high quality care. As a result, it is important for care providers to become culturally competent and provide patients with care that addresses their social, cultural, and linguistic needs to improve healthcare delivery and promote positive health outcomes in clinical settings.

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