Training Tool Helps Physicians Provide Quality Care to Diverse Populations

LEAWOOD, Kan. — By the year 2030, it is estimated that people of color will make up more than 40 percent of the American population. Now, physicians and other health-care providers have a new tool to help them provide top-notch health care to diverse patients. The program, developed by the American Academy of Family Physicians and partially funded by the Bureau of Primary Health Care, Health Resources and Services Administration, will help physicians learn more about the cultural diversity that exists and how to break down barriers to care, including differences in spoken language, socioeconomic class, education level and sexual orientation.

The training program, “Quality Care for Diverse Populations,” was developed in 2002 in response to an increasingly diverse population in the United States. An Institute of Medicine report released in March 2002 called for better training of physicians and other health professionals in caring for African American, Asian American and Hispanic patients.

“Family physicians are found throughout the nation, in rural border towns, small communities and large cities. It is imperative that they know the most effective ways to communicate with and treat all patients,” said Warren A. Jones, M.D., AAFP President. “This guide helps physicians understand and overcome cultural barriers so patients receive the very best care in a confidential, trusting environment.”

“Quality Care for Diverse Populations” contains training programs for groups and individuals. Five video scenarios play out possible physician-patient office visits. Tools and tips to enhance patient encounters include mnemonics, ways to improve patient-physician interactions, and written collateral materials. In addition, the kit contains learning objectives, discussion questions and cultural determinants for each scenario.

The program is available in two formats to suit group-training and self-learning needs. The group learning kit includes video vignettes, a facilitator’s guide, user materials and a list of other resources. The self-learning program, available on CD-ROM, includes the video vignettes and written materials, and allows the physician to view each vignette alongside corresponding written materials.