Cultural and Linguistic Competence Policy Assessment Across the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH)

Background:

The goal of this project is to promote health equity in Mississippi by improving quality of care through education and implementation of the  Enhanced National Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS) standards.  In collaboration with the National Cultural Competency Center (NCCC), the Office of Health Disparity Elimination is currently assessing the cultural and linguistic competence across the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). Moreover, as the MSDH seeks accreditation through the National Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB), this process aligns with PHAB’s measure 11.1.4A. 

Methods:

Using the NCCC's Cultural and Linguistic Competence Policy Assessment tool (CLCPA), the OHDE is conducting a three-phase project: 1) Education campaign (webinars and face-to-face trainings - completed in 2014); 2) Policy assessment (webinar, structured interviews, CLCPA, focus groups, policies scan); 3) Strategies implementation (recommendations and debriefing). 

Structured interviews will be conducted with senior managers, the assessment survey includes a randomly selected sample of employees.  Patients of MSDH clinics will participate in focus groups conducted in 3 different areas of the state.  A scan will be led to examine agency’s policies that may promote or hinder the advancement of cultural and linguistic competence.   

In August 2015, a final report will be completed and findings revealed in a debriefing meeting with key MSDH managers.  In addition, the will include short and long term recommendations with strategies for implementation. 

Discussion:

Culture influences and shapes all aspects of our lives.  Culture is a key element of the interaction between providers and patients.  The Mississippi State Department of Health’s mission is to promote and protect the health of the public.  This process will shed some light on policies that need to be developed, enhanced, modified or implemented to ensure that all Mississippians receive culturally and linguistically appropriate services through the agency.