Cultural competence in medical and health education: an approach to the topic

Abstract

Cultural competence is essential to ensure safe, high-quality healthcare; and adequate preparation is necessary to provide culturally congruent care. A literature review was conducted to examine the theoretical foundations of cultural competence and its application to medical and health education. The search for information in databases was carried out using the terms “cultural competence”, “health education”, “medical education”, “cultural sensitivity” and “cultural humility”. Cultural competence is the ability of a student or healthcare professional to provide culturally appropriate and specifically tailored care to patient populations with diverse values, beliefs, and behaviors. The development of cultural competency in medical education has occurred surprisingly rapidly in response to gaps in student training and skills identified by educators, clinicians, and care provider and accrediting bodies. The acquisition of cultural competencies by health professionals addresses: the interest in learning about other cultures, learning about another culture, interactions with people from different cultures and the set of capabilities to respond to people's health needs. from another culture. Competition consistently directs attention to political and social circumstances as well as individual considerations that can alleviate suffering and promote health and well-being.