Reflections from Common Ground . Cultural Awareness in Healthcare, showcases many of the opportunities and tools available for healthcare professionals to develop cultural awareness and competency. This unique book offers a way forward and easily lends itself to personal, group or institutional use. It is a tool to promote change, while also an interesting look into the origins of what we encounter in ourselves and others.Reviews: Beth Lincoln captures the essence of cultural competency. The book encourages readers to reflect on culture, their own and those of others, and motivates them to begin their journeys toward culturally competent care. It puts culture in an historical context and encourages healthcare providers to view themselves and their patients within that cultural framework. Because of the continuous increase in diversity in this country, healthcare providers should read and use this book to bridge the gap between culture and care, and help eliminate healthcare disparities.
- Lorraine Steefel, DNP, RN, CTN-A, Certified Transcultural Nurse, Member of the Transcultural Nurses Society, National Speaker on Issues related to Cultural Competency/DiversityEvery day health care providers interact with increasing numbers of people who are new to the American cultural mainstream. It is NOW a mandate for us not only to work with different situations, but also to understand the cultural differences that are found in the worlds of health and illness. This book uses compelling narratives to present the dilemmas inherent in this complex situation. It offers concrete suggestions for understanding the situations and practical guides for developing successful strategies for safely and artfully practicing in this milieu. - Rachel E. Spector, Author of Cultural Diversity in Health and IllnessReflections from Common Ground offers a rich and insightful exploration into the perceptions of the past and our sensitivities in the present. Beth Lincoln has created an anthology of cultural experience for us to explore, contemplate and from which to grow. Fascinating! A valuable tool for all of us ~- Jennifer Kresge MFCC, Healthcare Mediator & National SpeakerDiscovery begins with our understanding of how cultural influences affect the decisions about our health and wellness.
Self-reflective exercises are placed strategically throughout the book, and offer opportunities for readers to gain insight into many cultural beliefs, values, and health care practices. Real-life scenarios are included and illustrate the challenge of finding common ground with patients, families and colleagues. The concluding chapters focus on cultural awareness and competency in various health care institutions and academic settings. Reflections from Common Ground enables the reader, whether a healthcare professional, administrator, or educator, to gain fuller awareness and to open the doors to culturally sensitive healthcare.