Question

Since diverse groups have different acceptances of medical treatments, preventive protocols should be sensitive to this diversity among populations. How should medical personnel address this in their practices?

Answer 1

" If we cannot now end our differences, atleast we can help make the world safe for diversity."

-John F. Kennedy

As its said that the beauty of the world lies in the diversity of its people, one should respect these diversities.In healthcare industry these diversities greatly affects the heath related outcomes.These diverse groups in the population have different acceptance towards medical treatments, preventive protocols although its provided to all without any discrimination.Diversity is something which cannot be destroyed. The healthcare personnel have to accept them with these diversities. Moreover the clients have the autonomy to make choices for treatment and other health related protocols.

Racial and ethnic health disparities are linked to poor health outcomes and low quality care. Language and diversity can have great impact on this if not cared by the health personnel. For example: Taking consent for surgery by an Indian doctor from an Arabic patient may need an interpreter. Likewise there are many other barriers that is created due to the prevalence of varied diversity. Therefore the medical personnel should pay their kind attention while lending services to people of various diversity.There are variety of ways which can be incorporated by health personnel in their day to day practices.

• In cases with language barrier, Use an interpreter who can assist you in communicating with the clients and thereby make the clients more cooperative towards treatment regimen.
• For female clients, check if their cultural background permits males to attend them.
• Be approachable to the people with different socioeconomic group. The medical personnel shall not practice inequality in delivering care according to the economic status of the client.
• Give special attention to the vulnerable groups of population i.e children, elderly and women.
• Consider their values and beliefs related to health care.
• Analyze the educatinal level of the clients for better understanding, communication and cooperation.
• Respect their autonomy to choose the treatment and protocols.
• Never enforce any rules on them due to their diversity.
• Confidentality and privacy of all groups despite of their disparities should be maintained.

Diversity is significant as it helps to face new challenges. Diversity is not always a problem but is also a great driver of innovations. Therefore, medical care should be available to all group of people irrespective of their diversity.