Matching patients with therapists in culturally diverse rehabilitation services during civil unrest.

Abstract

A primary consideration in rehabilitation is the compatibility between clinicians and patients, where cultural diversity is a defining feature for both. The intricacies of cultural considerations in patient-clinician matching are heightened in areas of conflict and civil unrest. This paper presents three perspectives of the significance of cultural considerations in such assignments: patient-centred approach - prioritizing patients' preferences; professional-centred approach - clinicians' safety, social-emotional, and training needs; and utilitarian approach - what is best for the majority. A case study from an Israeli rehabilitation clinic is presented to exhibit the multifaceted considerations in patient-clinician matching within areas of conflict and civil unrest. The reconciliation of these three approaches in the context of cultural diversity is discussed, suggesting the benefit of a case-by-case strategy involving combinations of the three. Further research could examine how this might feasibly and beneficially optimize outcomes for all in culturally diverse societies in times of unrest.