Culturally competent care education: overview and perspectives.

Abstract

Health care disparities are a serious problem in the United States, for which an immediate and multifaceted response is required. A critical component in addressing these disparities is culturally competent care education. To that end, Harvard Medical School has established a Culturally Competent Care Education Committee, which drives key efforts in curriculum and faculty development. Although Harvard Medical School has substantial ongoing culturally competent care education practices, pedagogic methods for achieving the formidable objectives of culturally competent care education are not yet fully defined or developed. It is hoped that this report of current Harvard Medical School practices,perspectives, and experiences will help others institute or continue to develop culturally competent care education-related plans and activities. With time and study, the best and most efficient practices will emerge.