Cultural competency curriculum modules (CCCMs): An interactive web-based program to reduce health disparities

The existence of racial and ethnic disparities in health is well documented. The 2005 National Healthcare Disparities Report finds that while some disparities are diminishing, disparities continue to exist “across all dimensions of quality of healthcare.” As a means to educate the health care community about the critical issue of racial and ethnic health disparities, the Office of Minority Health (OMH), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has leveraged innovative technology-based learning strategies to develop a portfolio of Web-based cultural competency curricula. These curricula are designed to provide clinicians with the skills and tools to deliver culturally and linguistically appropriate care.

The Cultural Competency Curriculum Modules (CCCMs) were accredited and launched in December 2004 and a program tailored specifically for nurses will launch in March 2007. The design of both programs incorporates streaming video technology which is used to present case studies with tools to allow clinicians to provide their insights to case studies, share reactions with peers, and apply cultural competency concepts to their practice via self-reflection questions. Additional funding from CMS supported the development of a downloadable Facilitator's Guide, bridging the self-directed program as a tool for use in group settings.

In the two years since the launch of the CCCMs, this program has proved to be scalable, attracting over 8,422 registered users to date. Because the program is Web-based and free to participants, the curriculum reaches beyond geographic and institutional barriers, providing an accredited tool that organizations can offer to their providers at no cost.

Preliminary findings from a two-year program evaluation indicate that course participation does stimulate behavioral change and enhances awareness about cultural competency. Our survey data also indicate that over 70% of users prefer internet self-study formats for their continuing education needs.