Date of Defense

5-15-2019

Date of Graduation

6-2019

Department

Interdisciplinary Health Programs

First Advisor

Steven Eberth

Second Advisor

Carla Chase

Keywords

cultural humility, healthcare disparities, cultural dimensions

Abstract

The demographics of the US have changed over the years due to a rise in the number of immigrants in the United States. Despite the rise of immigrants, and the cultural diversity they bring, healthcare disparities remain in the United States for various culture groups. The aim of this paper is to provide an analysis of how increased cultural humility can mitigate healthcare disparities. Health care disparities effect minority groups regarding access to care and quality of care. The development of cultural humility can help mitigate disparities because it promotes self-awareness, reflection, and engagement in an on-going learning process. Implicit bias plays a role in healthcare disparities and this paper explores how increased awareness has the potential to decrease implicit bias, which is malleable to change. There are of essential cultural dimension measures that outlined to improve awareness. These measures include Hofstede’s Cultural Dimensions Theory, Schwartz’s Theory of Basic Values, and the differences in communication styles. These facets of cultural humility play a vital role in the valuing and understanding of healthcare disparities and act as a first step in change. Cultural humility also includes mindfulness, client-center care, and consciousness. The aspects of cultural humility are essential to help alleviate healthcare disparities and promote collaborative care.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Open Access

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