HSCI715 Online Class Doer Liberty University

01 August, 2024 | 12 Min Read

HSCI715- Discussion Thread Seminar Health and Healing

Seminar: Health and Healing

In exploring the topic of health beliefs and practices, the significance of cultural competence in healthcare becomes apparent. The U.S. legal framework aims to ensure that all individuals, regardless of cultural, ethnic, racial, gender, sexual orientation, or religious background, have access to quality healthcare. However, disparities in healthcare access remain prevalent, often due to differing health beliefs and practices among various cultural groups.

For instance, during times of illness, people may have varying beliefs about whether to seek help from medical professionals, traditional healers, or spiritual leaders. From a biblical perspective, as noted by Reid and Matthews (2021), the book of Luke acknowledges the necessity for the sick to seek medical assistance. However, some individuals may believe that God is the ultimate healer, which might lead them to forego hospital care in favor of prayer. This belief can pose challenges in modern healthcare settings, where individuals are held accountable for their health decisions.

The influence of family on health beliefs and practices is also significant. Michaelson, Pilato, and Davison (2021) argue that families play a crucial role in shaping health behaviors and decisions. For example, a family that promotes healthy eating and lifestyle habits positively influences its members' health outcomes. Conversely, detrimental health beliefs may pose risks to family members' well-being.

Cultural competence in healthcare involves acknowledging and respecting these diverse beliefs and practices. By recognizing and appreciating these differences, healthcare providers can improve their interactions with patients, leading to better health outcomes and a more inclusive healthcare environment.

References:

  • Ho, Y. L., Mahirah, D., Ho, C. Z., & Thumboo, J. (2022). The role of the family in health promotion: A scoping review of models and mechanisms. Health Promotion International, 37(6). https://doi.org/10.1093/heapro/daac119
  • Margolis, S., Schwitzgebel, E., Ozer, D. J., & Lyubomirsky, S. (2021). Empirical relationships among five types of well-being. Measuring Well-Being, 377-407. https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780197512531.003.0014
  • Michaelson, V., Pilato, K. A., & Davison, C. M. (2021). Family as a health promotion setting: A scoping review of conceptual models of the health-promoting family. PLOS ONE, 16(4), e0249707. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0249707
  • Reid, O. B., & Matthews, S. (2021). Wisdom commentary: Luke 10-24. Liturgical Press.
  • Spector, R. E. (2017). Cultural diversity in health and illness. Pearson.

HSCI715- Discussion Thread Seminar Traditions and Biases

Seminar: Traditions and Biases

In discussing the significance of cultural competence in healthcare, the concept of language barriers emerged as an intriguing and important issue, particularly in the context of healthcare access in the United States. Drawing insights from Spector (2016), the U.S. is home to people from diverse cultural backgrounds, many of whom do not speak English fluently. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 mandates that no individual should be discriminated against based on race, color, or national origin, particularly in accessing federally funded services. This includes ensuring that language barriers do not impede individuals' access to healthcare.

Language barriers fall under the broader category of cultural diversity and can significantly affect access to care. Denying healthcare services to individuals due to their lack of English proficiency is a violation of their civil rights. This issue highlights the importance of cultural competence in healthcare, which involves equipping healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills to navigate cultural differences and ensure that all individuals receive equal access to care.

Apostle Paul’s teachings in Galatians, as discussed by Harmon (2021), emphasize that all people are equal in Christ Jesus, reflecting the deep-rooted acknowledgment of equality within both the cultural and legal frameworks of the U.S. Healthcare institutions are therefore required to make reasonable adjustments, such as providing interpreters, to ensure that individuals with limited English proficiency can access care without discrimination.

The growing population of non-English speakers in the U.S. has heightened the need for cultural competence among healthcare providers. Squires (2018) and others argue that globalization and migration have contributed to this demographic shift, making it imperative for healthcare providers to be trained in cultural competence. This training equips providers to navigate the complexities of language barriers and deliver equitable care.

References:

  • Harmon, M. S. (2021). Galatians: Evangelical biblical theology commentary. Lexham Press.
  • Olani, A. B., Muleta, T. B., Rikitu, D. H., & Disassa, K. G. (2023). Impacts of language barriers on healthcare access and quality among Afaan oromoo-speaking patients in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. BMC Health Services Research, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-023-09036-z
  • Spector, R. E. (2016). Cultural diversity in health and illness. Pearson.
  • Squires, A. (2018). Strategies for overcoming language barriers in healthcare. Nursing Management, 49(4), 20-27. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.numa.0000531166.24481.15

HSCI715- Seminar Brief Health and Healing Assignment

Seminar Brief: Health and Healing

The topic of health beliefs and practices is crucial in discussions about holistic health and healing. Spector (2017) notes that every individual comes from a background that includes specific beliefs and practices related to health. These beliefs and practices influence individuals' health in various ways, from daily habits to perceptions of health and illness and the responsibility individuals take for their health and that of their families. Traditional and religious perspectives play a significant role in shaping these health beliefs and practices, which in turn affect overall health and well-being.

From a biblical perspective, Reid and Matthews (2021) argue that the book of Luke acknowledges the inevitability of illness and the need for medical intervention. According to Luke 5:31, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.” This Christian belief supports the idea that seeking medical help is a necessary response to illness. However, some religious perspectives may contradict modern health beliefs, such as the notion that illness is a result of sin and that healing comes solely through prayer. These beliefs can influence decisions about whether to seek contemporary medical or traditional healing practices.

Families also play a critical role in health promotion. Michaelson, Pilato, and Davison (2021) found that families act as a shield, belief system guide, and health promotion pillar in various societies. Parents, for example, take responsibility for their children’s health, while children play a more passive role. As family members age, however, the roles may reverse, with children taking on the responsibility of promoting their aging parents' health.

Cultural competence in healthcare involves acknowledging and respecting these diverse beliefs and practices. It challenges healthcare providers to appreciate the differences and approach patient care with sensitivity and understanding. By fostering cultural competence, healthcare providers can enhance communication with patients and improve the overall quality of care.

References:

  • Ho, Y. L., Mahirah, D., Ho, C. Z., & Thumboo, J. (2022). The role of the family in health promotion: A scoping review of models and mechanisms. Health Promotion International, 37(6). https://doi.org/10.1093/heapro/daac119
  • Lyon, M. E., Dā€™Angelo, L. J., Cheng, Y. I., Dallas, R. H., Garvie, P. A., & Wang, J. (2019). The influence of religious beliefs and practices on healthcare decision-making among HIV-positive adolescents. AIDS Care, 32(7), 896-900. https://doi.org/10.1080/09540121.2019.1668523
  • Margolis, S., Schwitzgebel, E., Ozer, D. J., & Lyubomirsky, S. (2021). Empirical relationships among five types of well-being. Measuring Well-Being, 377-407. https://doi.org/10.1093/oso/9780197512531.003.0014
  • Michaelson, V., Pilato, K. A., & Davison, C. M. (2021). Family as a health promotion setting: A scoping review of conceptual models of the health-promoting family. PLOS ONE, 16(4), e0249707. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0249707
  • Reid, O. B., & Matthews, S. (2021). Wisdom commentary: Luke 10-24. Liturgical Press.
  • Spector, R. E. (2017). Cultural diversity in health and illness. Pearson.
  • Sun, R. (2016). Intergenerational age gaps and a family memberā€™s well-being: A family systems approach. Journal of Intergenerational Relationships, 14(4), 320-337. https://doi.org/10.1080/15350770.2016.1229552

HSCI715- Seminar Brief Traditions and Biases Assignment

Seminar Brief: Traditions and Biases

The influence of language barriers on access to healthcare services in the United States is a critical topic explored in this seminar. According to Spector (2016), the U.S. is home to a diverse population, with many individuals coming from cultural backgrounds where English is not the primary language. These language barriers can significantly hinder access to essential health services. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 mandates that no individual in the U.S. should be discriminated against based on race, color, or national origin, especially when it comes to accessing federally funded benefits. This law emphasizes the importance of ensuring that language barriers do not prevent individuals from receiving the healthcare they need.

The concept of cultural competence is integral to overcoming language barriers in healthcare. Cultural competence involves equipping healthcare providers with the necessary skills to navigate cultural differences and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their language proficiency, have equal access to healthcare. The discussion in this seminar also explored how legal and ethical responsibilities require healthcare providers to make reasonable accommodations for language differences, such as providing interpreters or using culturally appropriate communication methods.

As Harmon (2021) notes, the biblical teachings of Apostle Paul in Galatians emphasize that all people are equal in Christ Jesus. This perspective aligns with the U.S. commitment to achieving equality in healthcare access, despite the challenges posed by cultural and linguistic diversity. The growing population of non-English speakers in the U.S. has made it increasingly important for healthcare providers to undergo cultural competence training. Squires (2018) argues that such training is more effective than merely encouraging non-English speakers to learn English, as it directly addresses the communication challenges in a healthcare setting.

References:

  • Czaika, M., & De Haas, H. (2014). The globalization of migration: Has the world become more migratory? International Migration Review, 48(2), 283-323. https://doi.org/10.1111/imre.12095
  • Harmon, M. S. (2021). Galatians: Evangelical biblical theology commentary. Lexham Press.
  • Hudelson, P., & Vilpert, S. (2022). Overcoming language barriers with foreign-language speaking patients: A survey to investigate intra-hospital variation in attitudes and practices. Cahiers du Centre de Linguistique et des Sciences du Langage, 28, 73-93. https://doi.org/10.26034/la.cdclsl.2010.1326
  • Olani, A. B., Muleta, T. B., Rikitu, D. H., & Disassa, K. G. (2023). Impacts of language barriers on healthcare access and quality among Afaan oromoo-speaking patients in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. BMC Health Services Research, 23(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-023-09036-z
  • Schwei, R. J., Del Pozo, S., Agger-Gupta, N., Alvarado-Little, W., Bagchi, A., Chen, A. H., Diamond, L., Gany, F., Wong, D., & Jacobs, E. A. (2016). Changes in research on language barriers in health care since 2003: A cross-sectional review study. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 54, 36-44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2015.03.001
  • Spector, R. E. (2016). Cultural diversity in health and illness. Pearson.
  • Squires, A. (2018). Strategies for overcoming language barriers in healthcare. Nursing Management, 49(4), 20-27. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.numa.0000531166.24481.15

HSCI715- Quiz Health and Illness

Quiz: Health and Illness

This quiz explored the cultural beliefs and practices surrounding health and illness in various communities, particularly focusing on American Indian and African American populations. The following are the questions and the correct answers based on the information provided:

  1. Question: What is one belief of many American Indians regarding the cause of illness? Answer: Illness can be caused by spiritual imbalances or disruptions, often believed to be linked to spiritual forces leaving the body.
  2. Question: What cultural concern may American Indians face when seeking health services? Answer: The challenge of traveling long distances outside their region for care.
  3. Question: How do African American families typically structure their family roles? Answer: African American families traditionally follow a matriarchal structure.
  4. Question: What is a common belief regarding illness among African American communities? Answer: Illness can be attributed to evil spirits.
  5. Question: How is the body viewed in Chinese culture? Answer: The body is considered a gift from one’s ancestors, and maintaining its harmony is crucial.

Quiz Score: 28/50

HSCI715- Quiz Cultural Foundations

Quiz: Cultural Foundations

This quiz focused on the foundational aspects of cultural competence in healthcare, emphasizing the importance of understanding and respecting cultural differences in health beliefs and practices. The following are the questions and the correct answers:

  1. Question: What is the role of a culturally competent health provider? Answer: To act as a bridge between patients and healthcare institutions, ensuring care is respectful of and responsive to the cultural and linguistic needs of all patients.
  2. Question: What is heritage consistency? Answer: Heritage consistency refers to the degree to which an individual’s lifestyle reflects their cultural background, including social organization and communication patterns.
  3. Question: What challenge do healthcare providers face when applying only basic knowledge of cultural traditions? Answer: They may provide culturally biased or inappropriate care rather than culturally competent care.
  4. Question: What are the National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services (CLAS)? Answer: Standards developed by the Office of Minority Health to guide healthcare organizations in delivering culturally competent care.

Quiz Score: 32/50

HSCI715- Quiz Health Domains

Quiz: Health Domains

The Health Domains quiz explored the diverse practices and beliefs related to health and healing across different cultures. Here are the questions and correct answers:

  1. Question: What is a common practice among individuals seeking natural folk medicine? Answer: Consulting practitioners who use herbs, plants, and minerals to prevent or treat illness.
  2. Question: How do religious affiliations influence health beliefs and practices? Answer: They significantly influence decisions about seeking spiritual healing, as some cultures believe that illness has spiritual causes.
  3. Question: What is the role of familial connections in maintaining health traditions? Answer: Families pass down health practices, such as using talismans to ward off illness, from generation to generation.
  4. Question: What is culturally competent care? Answer: Care that involves understanding and respecting the health and healing traditions of patients.

Quiz Score: 38/50

HSCI715- Personal Reflection Assignment

Personal Reflection

Introduction: This personal reflection examines my cultural biases and background, particularly focusing on African American culture. Spector (2016) emphasizes the importance of understanding oneā€™s cultural background to enhance respect and understanding of others' cultures. This reflection is based on the Heritage Assessment Tool and the Implicit Association Tests (IATs) to uncover my biases and foster professional growth in healthcare.

Heritage Assessment Tool Results: My cultural background is deeply rooted in South African traditions, particularly the Zulu culture. My family practices traditional Zulu health beliefs, including the use of herbs and spiritual healing. For example, my grandmother believes that illness is a spiritual battle, with healing facilitated through prayer and traditional herbs.

Personal Bias Reflection: The IATs revealed a slight preference for white people over black people, which was surprising given my African American background. This bias likely stems from subconscious influences and societal conditioning. The tests also indicated a preference for younger individuals over older ones, underscoring the need for continuous self-reflection and professional development to address these biases.

Conclusion: Understanding and addressing personal biases is crucial for providing culturally competent care. By recognizing these biases, I can improve my interactions with patients and ensure that I provide equitable and respectful care.

References:

  • Spector, R. E. (2016). Cultural diversity in health and illness. Pearson.

Quiz Developing Cultural Competence

Developing Cultural Competence

Question 1: Personal Bias Reflection Ethnocentrism, the belief that one’s cultural practices are superior to others, is a common bias that can affect healthcare professionals. Overcoming this bias involves self-reflection, education on diverse cultures, and actively listening to patients to build trust and provide culturally responsive care.

Question 2: Integrating Cultural Competence into Practice One key aspect of culturally competent care that I plan to integrate into my practice is the recognition and respect for cultural beliefs related to health and illness. This approach is essential for providing effective and culturally responsive care, particularly in my role where I serve diverse populations. By understanding and integrating patients' cultural practices into their care plans, I can improve health outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Quiz Score: 50/50

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