How I'm Advocating for Cultural Competence in Healthcare

And, even though sharing what I'm learning in real-time is scary, it's also necessary.

I attended The Dinner Group (TDG) Conference in Boston a few months ago. As an ambivert, I always feel excited and apprehensive about in-person events. I contacted my network to see who else was attending to ease my nerves.

While I found familiar faces, the strangers I met that day made the most significant impact. Among them was April English, chief secretary to the governor of Massachusetts. April’s insights on leadership opportunities during the “Activate In Your Community” panel inspired me profoundly. Her discussion on transferable skills and joining government boards or commissions opened my eyes to actionable ways to foster change.

One specific discovery stood out—the Health Disparities Council. Their mission to “reduce and eliminate racial and ethnic disparities in access to quality healthcare” resonated deeply with me. It was the spark I needed to explore advocacy more impactfully, particularly around cultural competence in healthcare.

Why Cultural Competence in Healthcare Matters

Cultural competence is more than a buzzword; it’s a critical strategy for reducing health disparities and improving outcomes. When providers consider their patients' cultural beliefs and practices, they build trust, foster better communication, and deliver care that meets patients’ needs.

Here’s how culturally competent practices impact care:

• Improves patient satisfaction: When patients work with a culturally competent provider, it can help them feel that they are being valued and understood, which leads to higher engagement.

• Supports better health outcomes: Providers who tailor their patients’ care plans can address their patients' unique circumstances.

• Reduces health disparities: Patients who trust in the healthcare system are more likely to engage in preventive care.

Therefore, cultural competence isn’t some intangible benefit that can't be measured. Instead, many tangible ways are building a culturally competence practice can have for the health outcomes of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC),

How I’m Moving Beyond Awareness Toward Advocacy

In last week’s substack, I focused a lot on awareness because many people - including healthcare providers - are unaware of the disproportionate impact that health disparities have on BIPOC communities. However, knowing that disparities exist is not the same as actively committing to address them.

Don’t worry; I’m not pointing the finger at anyone here. As much as I value education, I know I haven’t been the advocate I could be. If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you, too, have likely felt the pull to do more and be more proactive in addressing health disparities and promoting cultural competence in healthcare. Here are the actionable steps I’m taking to advocate for culturally competent practices and how you can do the same:

1. Understand Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Your Area

To be an effective advocate, you need to know the data. For me, this meant researching the racial and ethnic disparities in Massachusetts healthcare access and outcomes. Whether reviewing public health reports or connecting with local organizations, understanding the scope of disparities ensures your advocacy efforts are targeted and impactful.

Take Action:

• Visit your state’s public health website to access data on disparities.

• Collaborate with colleagues to identify trends and gaps in care within your practice.

2. Address Social Determinants of Health (SDoH)

Health disparities are often rooted in social determinants like housing, education, and access to nutritious food. Understanding these factors can help healthcare providers tailor patient interventions and recommendations.

Take Action:

• Conduct community needs assessments to identify critical SDoH.

• Advocate for programs or partnerships that address these barriers.

3. Promote Workforce Diversity

The lack of racial and ethnic diversity in the healthcare workforce is persistent. While cultural competence training is vital, achieving long-term equity requires a workforce that reflects the diversity of the patient population.

Take Action:

• Mentor emerging BIPOC professionals to navigate the healthcare field.

• Partner with academic institutions to support pipeline programs.

• Use your voice to push for equitable hiring practices within your organization.

Your Turn to Take Action

As a healthcare provider, you are uniquely positioned to drive change. Whether you join a local health disparities council, advocate for policy changes, or ensure your daily practices are inclusive and equitable, every step counts.

Challenge Yourself:

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Stay connected and informed as we continue this journey together.

Let’s take the steps necessary to create a healthcare system that truly serves everyone.

x Tomesha