Cultural Competency Training

This dynamic program trains clinical and administrative personnel in methods to improve communication in cross-cultural health care settings through the: 1) enhancement of the cultural knowledge base and sensitivity of the staff, and 2) teaching of effective cross-cultural interviewing skills. This program is unique in that it combines training on circumventing the language barrier through the appropriate use of interpreters; information about migration dynamics, entitlements, and epidemiological issues in immigrants; and cultural sensitivity and communication skills development as they relate to the medical encounter.

Needs Assessment

To tailor the cultural competence training to the needs of each facility, a needs assessment is conducted prior to each training. CIH has developed an instrument to assess the: a) linguistic and ethnic composition of the patient and staff populations, and b) site-specific issues and concerns in caring for diverse populations.

Training Logistics

Cultural competence session topics include: a) the cross-cultural medical interview and working with interpreters; b) negotiation of cultural beliefs and practices through enhanced communication skills; c) issues around ethnic and cultural stereotyping and profiling; and d) specific topics on immigrant health, such as domestic violence in immigrant communities and maternal child immigrant health issues.
The training consists of 3-12 contact hours, typically offered in 1.5 to 3--hour modules. The training uses a participatory and learner-centered approach, based on the learners' experiences and needs. Training techniques include didactics, role-plays and small group experiences. The optimal group size is determined based on the needs assessment.

Results

Pre-post evaluations have found significant knowledge and attitude gains regarding the appropriate use of interpreters, immigrant epidemiology, and cross-cultural health beliefs and practices. Behavioral change has been documented through an impact analysis looking at immunization rates at Child Health Clinics.

Cross-Cultural Care Giving in Maternal and Child Health:
A Trainer's Manual

To order this manual click here

Technical Assistance

CIH has assembled a highly qualified team to develop and implement customized cultural and linguistic competency initiatives. For further information, please call 212-263-8242.