3144.0: Monday, October 22, 2001 - 3:00 PM

Abstract #31888

Cultural competence: A researcher's view of current and future research needs

Joseph R. Betancourt, MD, MPH, Institute for Health Policy, Massachusetts General Hospital-Harvard Medical School, 50 Staniford Street, Suite 942, Bostom, MA 02114, 617/724-9713, jbetancourt@pol.net

Cultural competence interventions and approaches have taken many forms. Yet, despite having a logical, theoretical, and anecdotal base, few have a strong evidence base. Researchers interested in this field have embarked on several studies to "prove" that culturally competent interventions do, in fact, improve health outcomes. Perhaps, the strongest body of work in this area focuses on the impact of the lack of, or presence of, interpreters in the medical encounter. In addition to this, however, are a variety of other culturally competent approaches that are being researched. This presentation will identify several studies currently or soon-to-be in the literature supporting the provision and promotion of culturally and linguistically appropriate services in health care and will identify areas for future research.

Learning Objectives: 1. Identify at least one study underway to link interpreter services to improved health outcomes and at least one study underway to link other culturally competent interventions to such outcomes. 2. Identify high priority future areas for research in cultural competence in health care.

Keywords: Cultural Competency, Research

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.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA