Traumatic injuries are a new public health challenge in India. The purpose of this study is to examine culture as an influence in seeking treatment for injuries. The study serves as an example for developing countries to assess local Emergency Medical Services within a cultural framework and finds that seeking treatment was related to cultural values, beliefs about death, time orientation, and social networks. The study consisted of a cross sectional sample of 1200 individuals from districts in Chennai, a major urbanization center of South India and was conducted from November 1998—June 1999. A health belief survey was administered to respondents which asked them to rank traumatic injuries by severity and whether they would treat their injury with indigenous or allopathic medicine. Results highlight cultural factors that influence 1) injuries which individuals consider a priority 2) when an individual is likely to seek services, and 3) type of treatment sought. With awareness of cultural beliefs of injuries, implications arise for the development of culturally sensitive EMS systems and first-aid outreach for similar vulnerable populations. It is proposed to have an ambulance serve the dual function of a mobile clinic and travel to communities to promote first aid and injury prevention. Working within the cultural context would enable the image of an ambulance as a vehicle of death to be perceived as one of life. Collaborative efforts provide the missing link between EMS and the community in reducing mortality and morbidity attributable to traumatic injuries.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: 1) List cultural factors that contribute to beliefs of traumatic injuries. 2) Articulate how cultural factors influence utilization of Emergency Medical Services. 3) Develop a framework for EMS systems that are culturally competent for populations at risk.
Keywords: Culture, International Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.