Enhancing Cultural Competency: The Purnell Model Approach

Introduction

Cultural competency is a crucial skill for healthcare providers to effectively understand and address the diverse needs of patients from various cultural backgrounds. In this essay, we will explore how cultural competency occurs, strategies to become culturally aware, and an effective approach to using The Purnell Model when working with subcultures.

Understanding Cultural Competency

Cultural competency refers to the ability of individuals to interact effectively with people from different cultures and backgrounds. It involves recognizing, understanding, and respecting the beliefs, values, practices, and behaviors of diverse populations. Cultural competency occurs through education, self-reflection, exposure to diverse cultures, and ongoing engagement with individuals from different backgrounds.

Strategies to Become Culturally Aware

1. Self-Reflection: Engage in self-reflection to identify personal biases, assumptions, and stereotypes that may influence interactions with individuals from diverse cultures.

2. Education and Training: Participate in cultural competency training programs, workshops, and seminars to enhance knowledge of different cultures, traditions, and healthcare practices.

3. Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in diverse cultural experiences through travel, community events, and interactions with individuals from various ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds.

4. Active Listening: Practice active listening when engaging with individuals from different cultures, showing empathy, respect, and a willingness to learn from their perspectives.

The Purnell Model Approach for Subcultures

The Purnell Model provides a systematic framework for assessing cultural competence and delivering culturally sensitive care. When working with subcultures such as those based on immigration status, gender, political beliefs, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, educational status, etc., the following approach can be beneficial:

1. Assessment:

– Gather information about the individual’s cultural background, beliefs, values, and practices related to their subculture.
– Use open-ended questions to explore the individual’s experiences, preferences, and needs within their cultural context.

2. Cultural Awareness:

– Acknowledge and respect the uniqueness of the individual’s subculture without making assumptions or generalizations.
– Demonstrate empathy and understanding towards the individual’s cultural identity and its influence on their health beliefs and behaviors.

3. Cultural Sensitivity:

– Tailor communication styles, treatment plans, and care approaches to align with the individual’s subcultural norms and preferences.
– Consider the impact of social determinants such as immigration status, socioeconomic status, or educational background on the individual’s health outcomes.

4. Collaborative Care:

– Engage in collaborative decision-making with the individual to ensure that their cultural values and preferences are integrated into their care plan.
– Advocate for culturally competent practices within the healthcare team and promote a supportive environment for individuals from diverse subcultures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cultural competency is essential for providing high-quality and patient-centered care to individuals from diverse subcultures. By actively engaging in self-reflection, education, cultural immersion, and active listening, healthcare providers can enhance their cultural awareness and sensitivity. Utilizing The Purnell Model approach when working with subcultures allows healthcare professionals to assess cultural competence systematically, tailor care to individual needs, and promote respectful and effective interactions with patients from various cultural backgrounds. Embracing cultural diversity and integrating culturally competent practices into healthcare delivery can lead to improved health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, and enhanced provider-patient relationships.