Multicultural Issues in Healthcare

Health and illness are universal conditions, which, though experienced uniquely by each individual, are culturally patterned. Topics covered include lectures and discussions on the perception of health, health and illness among consumers, cultural and institutional factors that affect health behaviors, specific health beliefs and practices of selected populations, and specific cultural issues related to the safe and effective delivery of health care. The course introduces students to the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will allow them to work effectively with patients and their families from diverse cultures and belief systems and to overcome intercultural communication barriers.