Series Overview:

This three-program series addresses the important need for cultural awareness in the provision of healthcare in the 21st century, showing how cultural diversity impacts mutual understanding on many levels and in a variety of aspects of daily life.  Both verbal and non-verbal communication differences are addressed.  The discussion covers the cultural demographics of the United States and the demographic differences between the general population and healthcare providers.

Information is provided regarding the guidelines in the LEARN model and three cultural continuums developed by important researchers in the field of cultural competence.  The 14 Cultural and Linguistically Appropriate Services standards are outlined with special emphasis on those standards now mandated for healthcare organizations, and discussion of how organizations can implement these standards.  The last program in the series also contains four teaching scenarios depicting common problems that occur when working with culturally diverse populations and ways to avoid these conflicts.

The learning process is enhanced by realistic hospital-based vignettes which reinforce the information given.  A detailed teaching guide is included.